Paul Davis Edwards

With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Paul Davis Edwards, who left us peacefully on December 28, 2024, after a courageous one-year battle with kidney cancer. He was 77 years old. Born in Truro, Nova Scotia, on December 18, 1947, Paul was the beloved son of Stanley and Marie (Davis) Edwards. He is survived by his cherished wife of 55 years, Carolyn (Gilroy) Edwards; his siblings David Edwards (Glenda) and Mary Lynds (John); his children Beth Edwards (Chris Culligan) and Mark Edwards (Grace Corona); his grandchildren William and Sophie Culligan, and Benjamin Edwards; and many nieces and nephews. Paul also enjoyed close relationships with his brothers- and sisters-in-law Robert and Helen Gilroy and Rick and Vivian Boomer. Paul is predeceased by his parents, sister Nora Mingo, brother- and sister-in-law David and Mary Gilroy, and sister-in-law Joan Gilroy. Paul’s professional life was defined by his devotion to public service. Over the course of a distinguished 35-year career with the Nova Scotia Provincial Government, he worked in human resources across a variety of departments. Paul was widely respected for his fairness, compassion, and understanding. Known for his exceptional people skills, he spent his career recruiting, interviewing, advising, supporting, and mentoring countless individuals. His genuine ability to connect with people, along with his steady support and guidance, earned him the admiration of colleagues and those he served. Outside of his professional accomplishments, Paul had many passions and interests that enriched his life. In his childhood, under the guidance of his aunt, Kathleen Davis, Paul competed in equestrian events. As a sports enthusiast, he enjoyed playing baseball, golf, and tennis. Paul also had a love of music and dancing, particularly Friday night dances with Frank MacKay and The Lincolns, for whom he had great admiration and enjoyed many years of friendship. His love for the sounds of the 1960s remained a constant throughout his life, and the melodies of that era stayed close to his heart. Paul placed tremendous value in his friendships, forged over many years and spanning decades, which reflected his strong sense of loyalty. In his quiet way, he was always there for friends, offering a listening ear or a helping hand without hesitation. His affection for his childhood friends from Truro, as well as his involvement in high school reunions and gatherings, demonstrated the strength of those bonds. He graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from Saint Mary's University in 1970 and took great pride in staying connected with his fellow alumni, as well as the university’s varsity football, hockey, and basketball teams. His love for his community and alma mater was a constant source of pride throughout his life. Paul’s enthusiasm for adventure also led him to relish travel, particularly family trips to Europe and vacations to sunny Florida. In quieter moments, Paul nurtured his love for gardening, meticulously tending to his properties - a labour of love that brought him immense satisfaction. Above all, he cherished wonderful times with family and friends at the Edwards’ cottage in Barrachois Bay, Nova Scotia. Many special events were celebrated at the cottage, creating lasting memories for family and friends. Paul was devoted to his family. He was a constant source of love, support, and strength to his wife, children, and grandchildren, offering his wisdom with kindness and an unwavering commitment to their well-being. A man of integrity and quiet strength, Paul lived a life of purpose, deeply committed to his family, friends, and community. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his steadfast love, and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him. Rest in peace, Paul, Dad, and Grandad. You will forever remain in our hearts. The Edwards family would like to thank Dr. Lara Best, Dr. Andrew Humphrey, Dr. Myuran Thana, and Dr. Lutz Weise for their kind-hearted and expert care of Paul. We wish to extend our deepest and heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the West Bedford Transitional Care facility (5th floor) for their devotion to Paul during his final days. We also express our sincere appreciation to Paul’s caregivers, Alma and Maria. Finally, we are deeply thankful for the overwhelming generosity and support of our family and friends during the past year. A memorial gathering will take place on Sunday January 12th from 3-5pm at The Saraguay House, 2310 Purcell’s Cove Rd., Halifax. Remarks will take place at 3:45pm. Donations in memory of Paul may be made to the QEII Foundation in support of the QEII Patient Assistance Fund, established on behalf of patients experiencing financial difficulties during illness or injury. Please visit: my.qe2foundation.ca/donations.

Paul Davis Edwards

December 18, 1947 - December 28, 2024