Rev. Michael W. Edwards

Rev. Michael W. Edwards

Of Vero Beach, FL, went to be with his Lord & Savior on October 24, 2023. 

He was born in Niagara Falls, NY on November 28, 1947, a son of the late J. William and Patricia [Snyder] Edwards, Jr. 

A 1965 graduate of Bishop Duffy High School, he sought to further his education receiving his Bachelor of Science from Niagara University in 1970 and again graduating in 1972 from the University of Pittsburgh Mortuary Sciences. He then proceeded to study theology, graduating from Christ the King Seminary in East Aurora, New York in 1978.

Father Mike as he was affectionately known, was ordained by the Diocese of Buffalo, NY in 1979, he served the church in many capacities over the years and continued to do so until his health dictated otherwise. Starting as an Associate Pastor at St. Andrews Parish in Kenmore, NY in 1979, with stops along the way at St. Martin’s Parish, Buffalo, NY. 1983, Blessed Sacrament Parish, Kenmore, NY. 1985, St. Helen Catholic Church, Vero Beach, FL. 1989, Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Palm Beach Gardens, FL. 1992, Mary Immaculate Church, West Palm Beach, FL. 1994, St, Juliana Church, West Palm Beach, FL. 1996, St. Peter Church, Jupiter, FL. 1997. He returned to serve as lead Pastor at St. Helen Catholic Church in Vero Beach, FL from June of 1999 until his official retirement in July of 2016. 

After his retirement, he continued to be of service to the church and assist the diocese as the Episcopal Delegate for Senior Priests until August of 2021. He was also a member of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre and The 100 Club.

He is survived by his brothers, Joseph W.  (Patricia) Edwards, Mark A. Edwards and Brian J. (Mary Jo) Edwards and was the uncle of Erin E. (Keith)  Simson, Abigail L. (Steve Matthews) Edwards , Allie (Jason Seiler) Dell, Courtney (Joe) Heigl,  J. William (Sara) Edwards, IV, James O. (Marissa) Edwards and Zachary E. Dell, also by  many loving family members and  friends.

He was the brother of the late Daniel D. (Paula) Edwards.

His family will be present on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at St. Raphael Parish, 3831 Macklem Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY, from 10-11AM, followed by his Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. 

Visit www.rhoneyfuneralhome.com, for guest register.

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