James “Jim” Lee Edwards, formerly of Springfield, Missouri, passed peacefully at the age of 86 on Feb. 6, 2025, at his home in Navarre, Florida.

Jim was born on October 13, 1938, to James Monroe Edwards and Iva Lee Edwards (Norton) in Nixa, Missouri. After graduating from Nixa High School in 1956, he went on to study mathematics at Missouri State University. Two years later, Jim enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. It was here that he honed his talents in computer science. He would use those skills as a pioneer in the technical community of Springfield, Missouri, bringing some of the top companies in Springfield into the next century of advanced computing. Consumers Markets, and later O’Reilly Auto Parts, would benefit extensively from his abilities as he worked to computerize their operations. Notably, Jim worked for Consumers Markets for over 30 years and then spent 10 years at O’Reilly Auto Parts.

From a young age, Jim always had a passion for sports and stayed active whether as an athlete or a coach. He played basketball, baseball, fastpitch softball, taught karate and achieved a 5th degree black belt in Goju-Ryu Karate. Jim volunteered for many years as a basketball coach with the local Boys Club, enjoyed ballroom dancing and of course golf. Jim was an avid golfer and was always working towards the elusive hole-in-one on the golf course.

Jim was very influential in the lives of his children and helped instill in them the importance of hard work, success, family and of course sports. Jim was always there for them whether it was to play a game of catch in the backyard, attend a school or life event, help with repairs around the house, or watch a KC Chiefs game. He will be forever missed.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, James Monroe Edwards and Iva Lee Edwards (Norton) as well as his niece Kayla O’Neal (Wilcox). He is survived by his daughter Cindy Edwards (Springfield) and son in law, John Whitla, son, Jeff Edwards (Springfield), daughter in law, Stephanie, and granddaughter, Madison Vanlaningham. Jim also leaves behind his wife of 14 years, Evelyn, his sister, Martha Klepper (Florida), his brothers, Jack Edwards and John Edwards (both of Missouri), and numerous nieces and nephews.

A military service will be held in Jim’s honor at Springfield National Cemetery, 1702 East Seminole, on Monday, March 10 at 11:00. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jim’s life. The family thanks you for your thoughts, prayers, and sympathy.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, 1410 North Fremont Avenue, Springfield,Missouri, 65802.

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