It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our dad George “Lonnie” Alonzo Edwards, 74, who passed away peacefully surrounded by love on Monday, August 31, 2026, after a long battle with cancer fought with the heart of a lion.
Lonnie lived life on his own terms. He spent his entire working life behind the wheel as a truck driver, and there was no place he loved more than the open road. He especially enjoyed long-haul driving and the freedom that came with it. Trucking wasn’t just a job to Lonnie, it was a way of life. When he wasn’t driving truck, you could often find Lonnie riding his Harley, spending time with his friends, or simply enjoying the company of the people who meant the most to him. He had a love for life, a love for his friends, and a way of making memories wherever he went.
Lonnie was predeceased by his longtime partner, Diana Spence, and his brother Pete (Bobbi). During the final chapter of Lonnie’s life, he was blessed to have his special friend and partner, Sandra Griffin, by his side. Sandra stood beside him throughout his battle with cancer, caring for him with unwavering love, compassion and dedication. She took on some of the hardest parts of his journey so that his family could spend their time enjoying Lonnie and making memories with him. Our family will be forever grateful to Sandra for the love and care she gave to Lonnie, and for everything she did for him.
He will be deeply missed by his daughters, Lorraine (Bob) and Melissa (Anthony), and his grandchildren Tyler, Joshua, Jacob, Willa and Chad. He is also survived by his siblings Mary (Cecil), June (Heinz), and Donald (Terri), along with many extended family members and friends who were fortunate enough to know him.
True to who Lonnie was, he didn’t want people to gather after his passing to mourn the life he had lived. Instead, he chose to be there to celebrate it with everyone while he could.
On August 23, 2026, Lonnie held a Living Celebration of Life, surrounded by his family, friends and the many people whose lives he had touched. He had a great day seeing everyone, sharing memories and celebrating together. It was exactly the kind of goodbye he wanted—and he was able to be there to enjoy it. In keeping with Lonnie’s wishes, there will be no funeral or formal service.
His memory will live on in the stories shared, the friendships he made, the miles he travelled, and in the hearts of everyone who loved him.
We hope Heaven is lined with 18-wheelers, Harleys, and everyone you’ve loved and lost along the way.
Cheers to you Dad – The greatest storyteller we have ever met. We will miss you.
