John Phillip Edwards

With heavy hearts and profound love, we celebrate the life and legacy of John Phillip Edwards, affectionally known as “Snoop”, 66, who peacefully entered eternal rest on Thursday, February 12, 2026, while a patient at Royal Park Rehabilitation and Health Center, Matthews, NC. Born on May 19, 1959, in Stanly County, North Carolina, John was the beloved son of Sim Kendall, Bertina Edwards Merriman and Willie Merriman and was reared in the home of the late Abraham and Mary Edwards. John was jovial and kept things lively. His presence will be missed, but his memory will always live in our hearts.

He was educated in the Stanly County Public Schools and graduated in the class of 1977 from Albemarle Senior High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed the warm, easygoing spirit that would define his life.

John dedicated many faithful years of service to Collins & Aikman Textile Company in Albemarle, North Carolina, before retiring.

Beyond his career, John was a man of many talents and simple joys. He was a gifted cook whose meals brought family and friends together around the table. Whether it was a holiday gathering or a casual Sunday afternoon, John’s kitchen was always a place of laughter, storytelling, and love. He enjoyed playing card games, where his competitive spirit and playful smile were always on display.

Music lived in John’s soul. He played both the drums and guitar, sharing his rhythm and melodies with those fortunate enough to listen. His love for music was matched by his loyalty as a Carolina Panthers fan—win or lose, he proudly cheered for his team.

Most of all, John cherished time spent with family and friends. His presence was steady, his heart generous, and his laughter unforgettable. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and devotion that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his niece, Latasha Edwards. Reared in the home of Mary Edwards and Abraham Edwards.

John’s memory will be cherished by his special niece, who was like a daughter, Daquesha Merriman; brothers: Michael (Martha) Edwards, Kenneth Edwards, and Gary (Elizabeth) Edwards; sisters: Pastor Cindy (Deacon John) Wiggins, Bernita Edwards (Kenny Richardson), Abbie “Niecy” Merriman Miller, Harriette (Bishop Ronald) Carpenter, and Fleta (Melvin) Hooker; nieces and nephews: Trellis (Britney), Armani, Tomeka, Jackie, Tuwana (Junior), Jermel (Taprene), Lemont, Latwanya (Alfonzo), Trent (Yolanda), Laneal (Michael), Raven, Destiny, Roderious, Talaya and Takeshia; uncle, Deacon John D. Edwards; special cousins: Cathy Owens and Janice Crump; a host of great nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Phillip Edwards, please visit our floral store.