Wilmont "Pete" Edwards was born to Eddie Allred Edwards and George Washington Edwards, February 17, 1927 on Panama City Beach (PCB), FL. He spent his life in loyal service to the United States of America and his community. He loved the Lord, his country, home town, and his family. Pete worked hard as a young man, then joined the US Navy in 1945 to support World War 2 on USS Noxubee (AOG 56). He was called up in 1951 to serve again in the Korean conflict on USS Dashiell (DD 659). He was proud of his service and reminisced about harrowing and humorous experiences.

When he returned home, Pete married his sweetheart, Iva Janet Edwards and they raised two beautiful children, Lynn and William (Bill). Pete worked as a contractor, and he joined the Masonic Lodge in 1962, making him a 60-year Master Mason in good standing. He built hundreds of homes and structures with his strong able hands. Pete Edwards served as a Bay County Commissioner for several years and made positive impacts in his community. One of his achievements is he made it possible for PCB to have its first sports park, which is still being enjoyed by families today (Pete Edwards Field is a football field on McElvey Road). Wilmont "Pete" Edwards transitioned to his Heavenly Home peacefully on November 21, 2022 at the Clifford "Chester" Sims Veteran's Home in Panama City, FL. Thanks to Sims nursing staff and Covenant Hospice for taking great care of Papa Pete with love and reverence in his final days.

Wilmont "Pete" Edwards was preceded by his parents, siblings, and beloved wife, Iva Janet Edwards. Remaining to carry on, is his daughter Lynn Edwards-Lyda, son Bill Edwards, grandsons Robert Louis Lyda and Brandon Edward Lyda, and grandchildren Harrison Lyda and Allison Lyda.

Graveside services will be held on Monday, November 28, 2022 at 1 p.m. in the Evergreen Memorial Gardens.  The family will receive friends at the Wilson Funeral Home on Monday from 11:30-12:30 prior to the graveside service.