Ann Edwards (right) listens as her husband, former South Carolina Gov. Jim Edwards explains how doctors at MUSC removed a five centimeters long blockage from an artery in his brain last year, that caused him to have a stroke. (Brad Nettles/Post and Courier) 6/25/14
In Charleston, he is equally remembered for leading the Medical University of South Carolina to national prominence.
Edwards is one of only two men to be elected to the Pi Kappa Phi Hall of Fame (1981) and Mr. Pi Kappa Phi (1995) – the highest honor bestowed by the fraternity. He also served a term as chairman of the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation.
“It is a sad day for all of Pi Kappa Phi as we mourn the loss of our friend and brother Governor Jim Edwards,” said Mark E. Timmes, chief executive officer of Pi Kappa Phi. “He exemplified all the values Pi Kappa Phi holds most dear. His wisdom, wit, benevolence and integrity will not be forgotten. He was a gentleman of the highest order and proud of his fraternity and his country. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Ann and his family.”
Edwards passed away early Friday at age 87 following a period of declining health. The funeral will be 1 p.m. Monday at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Charleston.
“He was instantly memorable, and a great role model for us and our men. I remember how proud he was during our centennial, when the boards had dinner in the Long Room where George Washington had also dined,” said John R. Andrews, chairman of Pi Kappa Phi Foundation.
Read more:
- Former Gov. Jim Edwards remembered for reviving S.C. GOP, dedication to MUSC (The Post and Courier)
- Former SC Gov Edwards dies (ABC4 Charleston)