John “Sonny” Thomas Edwards, 88 of Smithfield passed away, on Tuesday, May 9, 2023. 

He was the son of the late William Compton Edwards and Trixie Murphy Edwards. Mr. Edwards was also preceded in death by his wife of 54 years Virginia Ann Barlow Edwards, and his sister Maryetta Hyder of Nevada. He is survived by his fiancé Kimberly Copeland and her children Frank and Stephanie; brother, George Powell of Utah and his sister-in-law, Myrtle Parker of Smithfield; as well as several nieces and nephews; and many devoted friends. 

He was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church, Hampton. Mr. Edwards was a Korean War Veteran and later retired after a long career in the insurance industry. After his retirement, he was active as a deputy for the Isle of Wight Sherriff’s Office, a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and a member and past Commander and Chaplain of the Smithfield VFW post # 8545.

Mr. Edwards loved the outdoors and enjoyed drives through the country, where he could tell you the history of every farm he passed.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday May 17, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Little’s Funeral Home, Smithfield, Officiated by Rev. Jeff Cannon, followed by burial in Bethany Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to, VFW Post # 8545, 223 Washington St., Smithfield VA. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.