David Gregory Edwards was born on December 17, 1961, in Raleigh, NC and departed this life on December 2, 2025, in Garner, NC. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Joseph L. Edwards, Sr. and Emma Baker Edwards, and by his eldest brother, Joseph L. Edwards, Jr.

From an early age, David exhibited a keen and inquisitive intellect. Family members fondly recall stories of him reading the dictionary simply for enjoyment as a young boy. His remarkable intelligence was matched by a deep creative spirit. A self-taught artist, David first expressed this gift in his youth, famously transforming the interior walls of the family home with hand-painted murals that reflected both imagination and skill.

David spent his elementary years at Sacred Heart Cathedral School in Raleigh, NC and received further education in the Wake County Public School System. He then followed in the adventurous footsteps of his father and brother and enlisted in the United States Navy, embracing a path of service and independence.

Throughout his life, David was an energetic and courageous free spirit who was not afraid to follow his own path, even when it diverged from convention. True to his self-directed way of life and traveling a path uniquely his own, David taught himself fluent Spanish and later spent time in Honduras, where he met the love of his life, Maribel Cristina Rosales. Married for 32 years, they built a loving home together and raised their three cherished children in Raleigh and Garner, NC.

David's humor and infectious laugh could brighten any room, and his affinity for dramatic film often sparked meaningful reflection and conversation across generations. He enjoyed the companionship of many adored pets over the years, and his affection for animals is reflected in some of his art. David combined the love of his craft with his entrepreneurial spirit and launched several businesses centered on his artistic talents. Alongside these pursuits, David dedicated many years of service to International Paper (now Evergreen Packaging), from which he retired in 2023. After retiring, he devoted himself more fully to his creative passions.

Over the years, David's artistic genius found expression through painting, photography, and graphic design. His work lives on through his self-published illustrative book, The Lady Next Door: A Collection of Art by David Edwards, initially featured on Amazon.

David is survived by his devoted wife, Maribel (Rosales) Edwards; his children, Vincent, George, and Kayla; and his siblings Theresa Edwards, Beverly Edwards (Larry), George Edwards, Lorraine Mortis (Robert), and Paul Edwards (LaDella). He is also lovingly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

David leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, multidimensional wit, independent thought, and authentic creation. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.