Bill Edwards, In Memoriam
It is with profound sadness that we share the news of Bill Edwards' passing on January 3, 2021. Bill was an Indige-FEWSS board member and longtime supporter. Bill inspired us with his enthusiasm and dedication, and we will hold his laughter in our hearts.
A message from Karletta Chief, Indige-FEWSS PI:
"Today I learned that a dear elder that I looked up to passed. I met Bill Edwards over 10 years ago at an Indigenous watershed meeting. He was always there to support my outreach work and always had great ideas to share. He was on the Indige-FEWSS Board and came to every board meeting and training. He was full of life, energy, laughter and positivity. Last time he came to Tucson, we went shopping for grass-fed lamb at the butcher shop and shared lots of laughter. He was always ready to collaborate. The last time I talked to him seems so recent. He was so kind. I am so sad and my deepest condolences go out to his wife and family. I will hold your inspiration in my heart. Thank you Bill for your wisdom and for always being there. I am going to miss you much."
A memorial from Tolani Lake Enterprises:
The Tolani Lake Enterprises, January 5 at 4:10 PM
It is with a heavy heart that we share that Bill Edwards, Tolani Lake Enterprises' Board Vice President, colleague, mentor, and friend, has passed on to be with our ancestors January 3, 2021.
Bill was integral in establishing food and economic sovereignty programs at TLE that served Navajo, Hopi, and other Native communities. He served as a strategic planner, project director, traditional advisor, and so much more. As our president, Garry Biakeddy, said, "I don't believe Bill ever said no to anybody when asked for his help."
Bill was a staunch supporter of many grassroots leaders in the region. He often shared stories of his time in the service, his time as a steelworker, his values as a traditional practitioner, and his work in a number of non-profit initiatives and organizations. The sheer outpouring of support shows that he will be greatly missed.
Bill was laid to rest at the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery at Camp Navajo on Friday, January 8, 2021.
Please join us in sending condolences to Bill's wife, Rena Edwards, and their children.
Ahe'hee',
The Tolani Lake Enterprises team