Reginald Edison Obituary

Reginald "Reggie" Edison was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, in-law, and friend who left an impressionable mark on the hearts of them and of all who knew him. Reggie was born on February 14, 1951, to the late Ernest and Helen (Jackson) Edison in Chicago, Illinois. His journey ended peacefully at his home on January 19, 2024, with his loving wife at his side, reading him messages of love from family and friends. He was raised and educated in the Chicago public school system. His collegiate years were spent near deep family roots in Frankfort, Kentucky. A proud alumnus of Kentucky State University (Kentucky State College 1968-1972), Reggie embraced leadership early as the President of the Black Student Union, advocating for the rights of African Americans. His passion for social justice remained a guiding force throughout his life manifesting in active involvement in causes that affect the community, living a life of service. He formed lasting friendships in college and remained in communication with his college buddies throughout his life.

To know Reggie was to know his immeasurable love for God and family and his endless desire to serve others. Reggie was a devout giver of himself in every way, dedicating over 13 years of service to his church, In His Presence Praise and Worship Temple as a Deacon, and later elevated to Minister. Though he loved being Deacon Reggie he could seamlessly step into his Minister role by preaching a message and glorifying God as he called off the Names of God that were written on the cover of his Bible. The children in the church, whom he adored, and who call him "Uncle Reggie, looked forward to getting a big smile and a tight hug from him whenever he was around. Minister/Deacon Reggie left an indelible mark on them and all of his fellow church members.

When asked "How would you like to be remembered?" His response was a resounding, "I want to be remembered as a man who deeply loved my family, a man who honored and deeply loved God, and who faithfully prayed that my name be written in the Lamb's Book of Life."

Reggie retired from the US Postal Service in 1994 after 20 years of commendable service and receiving multiple awards. After retirement he worked as a mail carrier for the MCI/Verizon Center where he could constantly be around, he and his daughter's favorite shared pastime, sports! Later he worked for the family-owned Edible Arrangements franchise as its "star driver." A very hardworking man indeed. Reggie was a kind and gentle man who had a fearless, fun-loving and adventurous side as well. His post-retirement life was marked by enjoying ziplining, cruising the high seas, riding roller coasters and water slides with his children and grandchildren, and playing cards and board games with anyone who wanted to take him on. He loved to laugh, bask in the sun, catch up on the news and sports and simply have fun with his family.

Reggie leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 31 years, Sonja Edison, daughter, Tessa Edison, three stepchildren whom he loved as his own, Nichole, Cameron, and Chad, grandchildren, Na'Tayla, Eden, Kristoper (KJ), Ian, Nevaeh, CaMayah, Aven, Khiya, and Cha de'; each of whom had a very special place in his heart. Reggie's legacy also lives on through his siblings Gwenetta, Pamela, and Sean Sr., also remembering his late brother Riley, and a host of family and friends. Reggie's life was a testament to his profound love for God, his family, his church and his community. His desire and aspiration to have his name written in the Lamb's Book of Life we believe has been accomplished. His warmth, wisdom, and love will be deeply missed but never forgotten.