Dewey Boyce Edwards, Jr.

Dewey Boyce Edwards, Jr., of Clemmons, NC, passed away peacefully on October 8th at Bermuda Village Retirement Community in Bermuda Run, NC. Born on September 19, 1942, in Albany, Georgia, Dewey was the son of the late Christine Wilson and Dewey B. Edwards, Sr., and stepson of the late Jack Wilson. He was a graduate of Carlisle Military School in Bamberg, South Carolina.

In 1968, Dewey and his beloved wife, Frances Darby Edwards, moved to Clemmons, NC, where he worked as an Industrial Engineer for Gravely Corporation. In 1972, they founded Clemmons Pallet & Skid Works, where Dewey proudly served as President for the rest of his life. He found deep pride in the company’s success, especially in its reputation for excellence and its pristine appearance. He was grateful for his loyal friend and business partner, Louis Hammill, whose dedication, and expertise remains instrumental to the company's continued success. He found peace knowing that all three of his children were there as well, carrying on the legacy he built. In his final weeks, he asked that appreciation from him be extended to all his employees who have worked so hard at Clemmons Pallet to make it what it is today, many who have been there 20 years or more.

Dewey served his community as a member of the Clemmons Village Council from 1993-1997, passionately advocating for the town he loved and called home. Dewey will be remembered most for his recognizable laughter and voice that could fill a room, his firm and unapologetic likes and dislikes, and his legendary jokes—many of which made him laugh harder than anyone else. He loved visiting his local taproom, catching up with friends, and making new ones and telling stories to his favorite servers. His presence was unmistakable and unforgettable.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepfather, and the greatest love of his life, his wife of 63 years, Frances.

He is survived by his three children: Missy Avent of Advance, NC; Lisa Cranfill (Jeff) of Advance, NC; Dewey Edwards III (Jodi) of Walkertown, NC

He was a proud grandfather to Mitchell Avent, Darby Avent, and Lily Edwards, and great-grandfather to Sam and Tommy Avent, who brought joy and light to him whenever they visited.

He is also survived by his brother, Randy Edwards (Nancy) of Grapevine, TX, and stepbrother, Greg Wilson of Albany, GA.

Dewey cherished the lasting friendships he made over the years and was deeply moved by those who visited, called, and supported him during his final months. The family would like to thank Trellis Supportive Care, especially his nurse Mindy, for their kindness and compassion, and the staff at Batangas Gardens at Bermuda Village. Special love and appreciation go to Miyisha Jefferson, Dewey’s devoted caregiver of eight years, who became family and cared for him with extraordinary love and patience.

A celebration of Dewey’s life will be held on Saturday, October 18th at 2:00 PM at River Oaks Community Church, located at 1855 Lewisville-Clemmons Road, Clemmons, NC. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trellis Supportive Care at 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103. Hayworth-Miller Kinderton Chapel is assisting the family.