Patricia Smith Edwards

Patricia Smith Edwards, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully transitioned into her eternal home Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the Atrium Health Navicent Hospice Pine Pointe facility in Macon. Born on June 26, 1945, in Sandersville, Patricia graced the world with her loving spirit for 80 remarkable years.

Patricia's life was characterized by her insatiable love for family and her unwavering dedication to serving her community. Patricia was Valedictorian of her Wadley High class of 1963, where she also enjoyed being involved in many school activities. After high school, Patricia moved to Atlanta to attend Agnes Scott College, where she earned her English Teaching Certificate, laying a foundation for her future career in education and literacy.

While attending school in Atlanta in the 1960s, Patricia began working at Davison's, where she met Ronald Austin Edwards, the love of her life. Their love blossomed, culminating in a beautiful marriage on October 12, 1969. They enjoyed 34 years of happiness together until Ron’s passing in 2006.

Patricia worked in retail, before later starting P & R Engraving Co., with her husband Ron. In the mid 1980’s Patricia shifted her focus to pursue a career as a librarian, earning a Master in Library Science (MLS) from Clark Atlanta University. Having her MLS allowed her to become the Branch Manager of multiple branches with Gwinnett County Public Library. In 2006 Patricia’s expertise and desire to impact her community back home, brought her back to Wadley, where she became the Director of the Jefferson County Library System, fulfilling a lifelong dream until her retirement.

Patricia's love for reading and literacy was evident in her profound commitment to children’s education. She founded the Ferst Readers Chapter in Jefferson County, a program dedicated to providing free books to children from birth to five years old. Her passion for genealogy and her cherished hometown motivated her involvement with the Historical Society, where she helped families discover their rich histories and sought to preserve the past and future exhibits of Jefferson County.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Patricia was a woman of many hobbies and interests. She had a deep appreciation for travel, exploring numerous states and countries including Canada, Mexico, Ireland, China, New Zealand, Australia, Israel, England, Czech Republic, Austria, and beyond. Her green thumb allowed her to cultivate beautiful gardens, which were a testament to her perfectionist nature. Patricia also had a love for music, learning to play the piano at an early age and sharing her talent at Moxley Methodist Church and Parkers Methodist Church.

Patricia loved her family beyond words, giving each of her grandchildren a piece of her heart. She is survived by her loving children, Gwen Edwards-Fuhrmeister (Scott) of Monroe, Caroline Perkins (Tommy) of Macon, and Andy Edwards (Katie) of Rome; her seven cherished grandchildren, Emma Fuhrmeister, Chris Fuhrmeister, Veronica “Ronnie” Perkins, Delia Perkins, Austin Gary "AG" Edwards, and Avi-Kate Edwards and Molly Edmondson; her two brothers, Wynder Smith and Charles Smith; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends who were touched by her warmth and love. In addition to her beloved husband, she is also preceded in death by her parents, Coralie Stevens Smith and William Patrick Smith.

Family and friends are welcomed to a visitation at James Funeral Home from 5:00-8:00PM Tuesday evening, September 16, 2025. Funeral services will be held at 11:00AM Wednesday morning, September 17, 2025 at Moxley Methodist Church with Rev. Jay Reppert officiating. Interment will follow in the family plot with her son-in-law, Rev. Tommy Perkins, officiating the committal. Honored to serve as pallbearers include nephews Charles Smith Jr, Clint Smith, Greg Holley, Chris Oglesby, Tom Oglesby and grandson AG Edwards.

In honor and remembrance of Patricia, the family strongly suggests that, in lieu of flowers, a tax-deductible memorial contribution be made to Ferst Readers of Jefferson County, 306 E Broad St, Louisville GA 30434

Patricia Smith Edwards leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to her family and community. Her spirit will be cherished and missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.