Bernell Joseph Edwards, Jr. passed away on March 26th 2023 at the age of 86. He was born in Panaca, Nevada on April 21, 1936 to Bernell Sr. and Hannah Belva Wadley. His family moved to California where Bernie graduated from Wasco High School. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Speech and Dramatic Arts and Master’s Degree in Communications from Brigham Young University and a PhD in Educational Technology from Arizona State University.

Bernie married his sweetheart Marita Louise Brimhall on December 23, 1959 in Mesa, Arizona. Their family lived in various parts of the country for educational and employment opportunities before settling down in Mesa. He was a Research Psychologist for the United States Air Force Research Laboratory specializing in aircrew training and technology evaluation.

Bernie served two missions to Brazil for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, one as a young man and another with Marita after they had both retired. Bernie was a gentle man whose joys in life included acting, golf, the gospel, music, reading, and his family.

In addition to his valiant caregiver and beloved wife of 64 years, Bernie is survived by his sister Dawn Fairbanks, his children Dana (Pam) Edwards, Susan (Billy) Choate, Melinda (Jeff) Jensen, Scott (Amy) Edwards, 22 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Carole and Mary, his daughter Emily (Dale) Jones, and grandson Ryan Edwards.

A viewing will be held on Friday, April 7, 2023 from 7:00 to 8:30 PM at Meldrum Mortuary located at 52 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201. A graveside service for family and friends will be held on April 8, 2023 from 10:00—11:00 a.m. at the Mesa Cemetery.