A public memorial for former Montgomery County Judge Jimmie C. Edwards III is planned for May 2 at Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park following his death March 31 at age 77.
Edwards was a decorated Vietnam veteran, former state representative and founding chairman of the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Commission, according to his obituary.
“Known to many as a master storyteller, Jimmie had a rare gift for connecting people through humor, honesty, and lived experience,” his obituary reads. “Whether sharing memories of service, family stories, or lessons learned along the way, he left those around him better for having listened. He was a brother others leaned on, a son deeply connected to his roots, and a man whose presence filled a room.”
The big picture
Montgomery County Commissioners Court on April 9 approved a resolution honoring Edwards as a former county judge, U.S. Marine and founding leader of the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park. The court also declared April 9 Judge Jimmie C. Edwards III Memorial Day in Montgomery County.
Edwards was a lifelong Montgomery County resident who first served as a congressional page and later as a congressional staffer in Washington, D.C, according to the county’s resolution. During the Vietnam War, he volunteered for the U.S. Marine Corps and served with the Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Regiment, 1st Marine Division. After being severely wounded in combat, he was awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal with V for Valor and other citations for bravery and distinguished service.
After returning home, Edwards earned a political science degree from Sam Houston State University and continued serving the public. He represented Montgomery and Walker counties in the Texas House from 1973-81 and later served as Montgomery County judge from 1983-86, according to the resolution.
Honored Mission, the organization behind Veterans Memorial Park, said Edwards was also the visionary behind the park and its long-term mission to honor veterans and first responders.
What they’re saying
Tributes from local leaders painted a similar picture. In a Facebook post, Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough called Edwards a “true public servant” and said he would remain grateful for Edwards’ vision to honor military service in Montgomery County.
“Founding the Montgomery County Veterans Commission and helping create the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park, a lasting tribute to the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes,” Keough said. “That park stands today as a reflection of his heart for veterans and his unwavering commitment to this country and our fine county.”
State Rep. Will Metcalf also described Edwards as “a true American hero” and one of Montgomery County’s most respected public servants.
“Even as he faced declining health, Jimmie never stopped leading. He made sure those around him understood his passion, his purpose, and his unwavering commitment to our veterans and to Montgomery County,” Metcalf said. “Jimmie Edwards knew what true leadership looked like, and he exemplified it to his very last breath.”
County leaders said that legacy will continue through the memorial park he helped build. In the resolution, commissioners said the park stands as a “living legacy” of Edwards’ values of duty, honor, sacrifice, patriotism and service to others.
