Evelyn Edwards

EVELYN HARRINGTON EDWARDS

Evelyn Harrington Edwards, 87, of Bellaire, Michigan passed away on June 2, 2012 at Meadowbrook Medical Care Facility in Bellaire. She had been a resident of Meadowbrook for the last three years following a debilitating illness.

Evy was the fourth of twelve children born to Ray and Lena Harrington of Comfort Corners in Bellaire. She attended Alden Public High School and graduated from Elk Rapids High School in 1942.

On September 22, 1943, Evy married William "Bill" Edwards of Charlevoix. In 1945 Bill and Evy moved to Bellaire, where Bill built the Bellaire Greenhouse on North Bridge Street, a business they ran successfully for over 36 years. Although Evy had no formal training in floral arranging, she thrived in the floral design business, and was known for her artistic arrangements and gardening skills. Evy became active in FTD (Florists' Transworld Delivery) and attended many interactive floral design seminars. For many years did the Christmas decorations for Shanty Creek, the Village Chalet, and the Chalet Restaurant in Gaylord.

Evy is survived by her three children: Tom Edwards of Atlanta, Georgia; Mark (Karin) Edwards, of Bellaire; and Ann Marie (Mark) Rohrig, of Eastpointe, Michigan. She is also survived by four grandchildren: Erik and Matthew Edwards, of Bellaire; Raymond Walters, of Pontiac; and Colleen Walters, of Lathrop Village, Michigan. In addition, she leaves one brother, six sisters, and many nieces and nephews. Evelyn was predeceased by her husband, her parents, three sisters and one brother.

During their sixty-seven married years, Evy and Bill traveled extensively throughout Europe, particularly enjoying the British Isles and Germany. Evy was an active member in the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary and was especially proud to be major force in the annual poppy drive. She also lent her talents and time to the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. After she retired, and when she wasn't at Bingo, Evy worked for the Forest Home Township Election Board and was a familiar face at each and every election. A Democrat to the bone, Evy followed current and political news until her death.

Evy will be remembered for her warmth, humor, compassion, artistry, and the joy she received from baking, nurturing her grandchildren, and unfailing friendship she offered to one and all. She once said of her mother, "Her cookie jar was never empty. I want to be like that." And her cookie jar was never empty, as all her friends, neighbors, and grandchildren can attest.

A memorial service for both Evelyn and Bill is planned for August. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Antrim County Commission on Aging.