James Leonard Edwards

Mr. James Leonard Edwards, age 77, of Mt. Airy, better known as “Cowboy” passed away peacefully Tuesday, April 2, 2019 at his home.  Leonard was born in Surry County on February 15, 1942, the son of the late Walter Franklin and Ola Betty Marshall Edwards.  He was a tobacco farmer by trade; however his true passion in life was horses.  His love of riding horses in his youth led to riding in wagon trains and then training and pulling draft horses later in life.  Horses were a constant throughout.  He was never seen without his trusty white cowboy hat.  Left to cherish his memory are daughters and sons-in-law, Delores and Dale Johnson, Donna and Steven Jarrell, grandchildren, Nickie and Scott Haas, and Austin Jarrell; great grandchildren, Avery and Alexis Craddock, Emma Haas, Bentley Snow; a half-brother, Junior Marshall; many nieces and nephews; and his dogs Annie and Max.  In addition to his parents, Mr. Edwards was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Mildred Edwards, and a brother, Gray Woltz Edwards.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, April 5, 2019, at Moody Funeral Home Chapel by Rev. Arlis Thomas.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.  Family and friends are welcome at the home of Delores Johnson.  The family would like to thank the staff of Northern Hospital Intensive Care Unit for their wonderful care.