Obituary of Russell J. Edwards

EDWARDS -  Russell J., 73 of Ebensburg, passed away April 9, 2020 at UPMC - Altoona, after an extended illness.  Born January 9, 1947 in Ebensburg, son of Arthur E. and Josephine (Mirra) Edwards.  Preceded in death by his father .  Survived by Mother, Josephine;  sisters: Deborah  A. Edwards, and Denise L.  (Michael) Murphy; all of Ebensburg,  Also survived by his nephew, Adam (Jessica) Murphy, Johnstown;  niece, Cathy (Brian) Holley, Ebensburg;   and great nephews & niece:  Garrett & Reid Murphy, Bryant, Jocelyn & Logan Holley; and special friends Bob & Linda Werner, Derry, PA.  Russ was a graduate of the Central Cambria Schools, attained his Bachelor’s degree at IUP, and his Masters in French at Millersville College.   He had been employed as a teacher for the Derry Area Public Schools, where he taught English and French; and served as an adjunct professor at St. Vincent College. He retired from Derry Public Schools in 2002 and from St. Vincent in 2013. As a teacher, he had a passion for his students and served as a class advisor to many graduating classes at the Derry Area High School.  "Uncle" enjoyed spending time with his great niece and nephews; they were indeed the light of his world and he was a loyal supporter of all of their sports, hobbies and endeavors.  He enjoyed camping with his family and in his retirement, moved back to Ebensburg to be with his mother and family.  He will be forever missed by all whose life he touched.  Due to the present health restrictions, a private Funeral Service and burial will be held at the convenience of the family.  Interment at Lloyd Cemetery, Ebensburg.   In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Russell's memory to the Fred Rodgers Center for Early Learning  & Children's Media, c/o St. Vincent College, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, Pa.  15650.    Arrangements are in the care of the Askew-Houser Funeral Homes, Inc., Ebensbrug, Pa.