Lloyd "Lascelles" Edwards

With deep gratitude and joy for a life well-lived, we celebrate the remarkable journey of Lloyd “Lascelles” Edwards, who passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on Friday, January 17, 2025, in his Middletown, Delaware home, surrounded by family and friends. Born on November 16, 1930, in Colón, Republic of Panama, to the late Violet Ford and Lloyd Edwards, Lascelles’ life was a testament to love, resilience, and generosity. Educated in Panama, Lascelles graduated from Colegio Abel Bravo de Colón. One of his proudest childhood memories was being selected to carry the flag in front of the school band, a moment that foreshadowed his lifelong dedication to excellence. Lascelles had a natural affinity for numbers and accounting. He began his career in Panama, working in the accounting department at Tagarópulos. In 1957, his beloved aunt, Ann Wilson, sponsored his immigration to Brooklyn, New York, where he built a thriving life. Lascelles worked as an accountant for the United Backing Company until 1987 and later at Polytechnic University, where he cultivated enduring friendships during his more than 20-year tenure. Remarkably, he retired at the age of 83. In 1967, Lascelles met Rita at a Thanksgiving dinner, and the two were married in 1969 at St. Stephen’s and St. Martin’s Episcopal Church. Their union of 56 years brought them two children, Nicola Domica Edwards and the late Nigel Jason Edwards. Lascelles was a devoted husband and father, creating a home filled with music, and cherishing family. When his children were young, Saturdays became “Daddy’s Day,” with trips to Brooklyn College for music lessons. Lascelles encouraged his children to perform for guests, fostering their artistic talents. A music lover himself, he enjoyed jazz, classical, show tunes, and ballads, and he found solace in listening to Family Radio throughout the day. Lascelles’ joyful spirit shone in his love for roller skating. On summer evenings, he would don his skates, bringing delight to neighborhood children who cheered as they joined him outside. He also showcased his appreciation for nature’s beauty by planting two large Colorado Blue Spruces in his small Brooklyn backyard. A faithful member of the International Pentecostal City Mission in Brooklyn, Lascelles found hope and comfort in the church community, especially after the passing of his son, Nigel, in 1987. He gave back through his service on the scholarship committee and his support of youth ministries. In 2021, Lascelles and Rita relocated to Middletown, Delaware, to be closer to Nicola after their Brooklyn home of 52 years was destroyed by fire. Despite this loss, his resilient spirit continued to shine. To those who knew him, Lloyd “Lascelles” Edwards was affectionately known as Daddy, the Legend, Uncle Las, and Popi (Shakyna’s Grandpa). He was a patriarch and a man of God. His wife and daughter will cherish memories of him as a generous provider, a benevolent soul, an amateur photographer, a thinker who shared wisdom, and a genuine night owl. With his exceptional memory, love for accessories, and orderly nature, Lascelles’ sense of style and keen observation set him apart. Above all, he was the epitome of love, dedication, and grace. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those privileged to know him. Lascelles’ legacy is lovingly remembered by his wife, Rita E. Edwards; his daughter, Dr. Nicola D. Edwards; his brothers, Caswell McFarlane, Sr., Melville Edwards, and Mario G. Edwards; his aunts, Gloria Smith, Aselia Robinson, and Arthence Hayes; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Nigel Jason Edwards; his brother, Berton Buchanon; his sister, Heloise Smith; his parents, Violet McFarlane and Lloyd Edwards; and his grandparents, Joseph and Florence Ford. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 5 pm until 7 pm on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 East Main Street, Middletown, DE. A funeral service will begin at 9 am on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at International Pentecostal City Mission, 9202 Church Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. Interment will follow in The Evergreens Cemetery, 1629 Bushwick Avenue, Brooklyn, NY.

Lloyd "Lascelles" Edwards

November 16, 1930 - January 17, 2025