Barbara Ray Eaves Edwards

Mrs. Barbara Ray Eaves Edwards, 86, of Whiteside Drive, Elberton, wife of 44 years to the late Gene Arlen “Doodlebug” Edwards, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at her creekside home surrounded by her beloved woods and family. 

Mrs. Edwards was born in Elberton on January 23, 1938, daughter of the late Alfred Richard “A.R.” Eaves, Jr. and Doris Haseltine Ray Eaves Hudson. She was a 1956 graduate Elberton High School. Employed by Boyd Granite as a secretary for many years, she was also a secretary for Dravo Groves which built the Richard B. Russell Dam. She and her husband formerly owned Richard’s Restaurant, Edwards Package Company, and Edwards Real Estate. Barbara loved remodeling spaces, and was most proud of uncovering and preserving the Coca-Cola sign at Richard's.

She was an avid gardener who took great pride in tending to her plants and flowers. Barbara was an excellent cook and enjoyed watching football. She loved to travel and snow ski. Her favorite place, however, was her outdoor oasis in her backyard, where she spent many hours with family and friends enjoying her beautiful waterfall. 

Mrs. Edwards was a devoted mother to her four children: the late Tracey Jean Turner, Robin Ann Edwards (Talmadge Bolemon) of Elberton, Lance Richard Edwards of Elberton, and Jennifer Ray Edwards Hall (Greg) of Appling. She was a doting “Babee” to her eight grandchildren: Chelsea Jean Smith (Justin), Jacob Edwards Turner – who has been her dedicated caretaker, Keith Thomas, Kevin Thomas, Collin Gene Edwards, Stephanie Dove, Makenzie Barbara Campbell (Shawn), and Alexander Arlen Hall; and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Along with her husband, parents, and daughter Tracey, she is preceded in death by her step-father, William Oscar “W.O.” Hudson; husband, Gene Arlen “Doodlebug” Edwards; companion, Gregory Martin Adams; and brothers: Marvin Claude Eaves and Alfred Richard “Dickie” Eaves, III.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, July 28, at 10:30a.m. Forest Hills Memorial Park. 

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com. 

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is assisting the family of Mrs. Barbara Ray Eaves Edwards.