Claudia Darnell Edwards was born on December 2, 1929 in Jackson, Tennessee. She was the daughter of the John Darnell and Mamie Greer who preceded her in death. She had three siblings who preceded her in death: Essie May, Willie Darnell, and Books Darnell. She was raised in a Christian home.
Claudia Edwards graduated from Lane College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She briefly taught in the Tennessee Public Schools. Later she earned her master’s degree in education from the National College of Education. Also, she was a longtime elementary teacher in the Indianapolis Public Schools.
Claudia Edwards was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Solomon Edwards. They were both very dedicated to their Christian faith and instilled those values in their children, Gregory and Risa.
Sister Edwards was baptized in Jesus’ name and received the gift of the Holy Ghost around 1981. She was a member at Grace Apostolic Church for many years. She was active in family devotions at home and Bible study groups. She also enjoyed attending church prayer meetings and Adult Vacation Bible School.
In later years, Mother Edwards was highly active at Bethesda Temple Apostolic Church. She enjoyed serving on the Hospitality Committee. She attended many church events with great enthusiasm. However, her greatest love was working with children. In addition to her career as a public school teacher, she also taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. She was a day care teacher as well. Working with the youth gave her much happiness and joy.
During her illness, Mother Edwards continued to read Scripture at home and listen to Christian television. She greatly appreciated the prayers, phone calls, cards, gifts, and visits from her church friends.
Mother Edwards was resting at home when she passed into her heavenly home on July 27, 2018.
Mother Edwards leaves many to cherish her memory, including her sister Elizabeth Hutcherson; son, Gregory Edwards (Melissa): daughter, Risa Edwards; five grandchildren: Gregory Darnell, Joseph, Ashley, Ravayah, and Jaxson; along with extended family and others in the community.