Obituary of Joe Edwards
It is with great sadness that the family of Joseph Allan Edwards announce his passing which occurred on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at home surrounded by his family. Born on January 19, 1936, in Big Cove, Queen’s County, NB. He was the son of the late George and Florence (Haywood) Edwards.
In his early years, Joe worked a wide variety of jobs, never afraid of hard work. He spent time working in the woods, drove pulp trucks, served as a Cookee in lumber camps, and even worked on the train. Later, Joe became best known for his exceptional craftmanship in drywall and swirl ceilings. His skill and attention to detail earned him the nickname “Swirlin Joe”, a name he carried with pride. He had an incredible memory and could recall each and every house he worked in over the years. His reputation for his craft even took him to Romania on three separate occasions, sharing his talents far beyond home. Joe was also a dedicated volunteer firefighter with the Belleisle Valley Fire Department, serving his community for ten years.
Joe lived life with laughter, music, and the great outdoors. Known for his practical jokes, he rarely missed a chance to make others smile. He found peace and happiness fishing at Turtle Lake with family, fly fishing on the Miramichi, and deer hunting at his beloved camp on “the hill”, patiently waiting for “the big buck”. At home, his passions continued, watching wrestling with enthusiasm, playing the accordion and harmonica, and listening to his favorite Newfoundland music or the Sunday Night Country Jamboree. He found great joy in life’s simple pleasures especially pizza nights or a big bowl of butterscotch ice cream. His playful spirit, his kindness, love of nature, and gift for music and laughter will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Joe is survived by his loving wife Helen Edwards of Springfield, NB; children: Deborah (Brad) Howland of Lower Kars, NB, and Patricia (Chris) Bingham of Kars, NB; grandchildren: Madison (Jeff), Benjamin (Jessica), Paige (Ethan), Sarah (Peter) and Samantha ; great grandchildren: Chase, Amber, Carly, Florence and Audrey; sister Grace Beauchamp of Moncton, NB and sister- in- law Jenny Edwards; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, Joe was predeceased by his brothers Robert, Beverley, Fred, Jim and Dave; sisters Phyllis King and Alice Ward; brothers-in-law Ken Ward, Ivan Beauchamp and Mike King; sisters-in-law Faith Edwards and Doris Edwards. Also, his beloved dogs Lady, Sam, Toostie, Duke and Buddy.
A special thank you to Sussex Extramural staff Melody, Virgina, Lynn & Jennifer and Dow-Health staff Cassidy Savage for helping us keep Dad comfortable and cared for at home during such an important time.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Sherwood’s Funeral Home, 18 Scovil Road, Norton, NB. In keeping with Joe’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral service. A private family interment will take place in the spring at Bay View Cemetery, Hatfield Point, NB.
Donations in memory of Joe may be made to Sussex Extramural or Bayview Cemetery. Personal condolences to the family and charitable donations may be made through SherwoodsFuneralHome.com.
