Deidre Ann Edwards, age 73, peacefully departed this life on September 23, 2026.

Deidre was born on April 1, 1953, at Ohio Valley Hospital, the beloved daughter of the late Leroy Elmer Edwards Sr. and Ernestine Maude (Madden) Edwards.

Deidre spent her early years in Toronto, Ohio, where she was raised with her family. During her years in Toronto, she was a member of First Baptist Church of Toronto. In 1966, Deidre and her family moved to Steubenville, Ohio, where she continued her education and graduated from Steubenville High School in 1971.

Deidre continued her education at the University of Phoenix, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Her education prepared her for a long and dedicated career in public service.

Deidre devoted 30 years of service to the State of Ohio, working in accounting for mental health services. Throughout her career, she demonstrated dedication, responsibility, and commitment to her work. Her three decades of service were an important accomplishment and a lasting part of her legacy.

Deidre was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Family was an important part of her life, and she will be remembered for the love she shared, the memories she created, and the special place she held in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her beloved son, Hakim K. Edwards Sr.; her loving grandchildren, Hayley Stamps, Hakim K. Edwards Jr., Sadie Rose Edwards, and Braidyn Paul Calvin Edwards; her brother, David Edwards; her sisters, Carolyn Douglas and Sharon Haskins; along with nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, former coworkers, and many dear friends.

Deidre was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy Elmer Edwards Sr. and Ernestine Maude (Madden) Edwards; and her brothers, Leroy Elmer Edwards Jr., Calvin Edwards, Wade Edwards, Warren Edwards, Ernest Edwards, Robert Edwards, Franklin Joseph Edwards, Anthony Edwards, and Stanley Edwards.

Deidre’s earthly journey may have ended, but the love she gave, the example she set, and the memories she created will continue through her family. Her 30 years of public service, her educational accomplishments, and, most importantly, her devotion to her family will remain a part of her lasting legacy.

Her presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. "Psalm 23:1

May those who loved Deidre find comfort in the memories they shared with her and peace in knowing that she is now at rest.

Services will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at First Baptist Church, 900 Pierce Avenue, Toronto, Ohio. Viewing will be held from 3:00 p.m. until the funeral service begins at 4:00 p.m.

Arrangements entrusted to Gregory-Martin Funeral Home.