Barry Lee Edwards

Barry Lee Edwards, born November 30, 1947, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on March 13, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, loyalty, and love that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Barry was the beloved husband of Frances Branstetter Edwards for 57 years, a union marked by devotion and mutual respect. He was a loving father to his daughter, Stacy Edwards Smith and a proud grandfather to grandson, Barrett Edwards Smith. Barry took immense pride in his family and found joy in every moment spent with them.

Barry is survived by his sister, Joan Edwards; brother-in-law, Fowler Branstetter (Katie), and their children Emily, Andrea, and Kevin. Barry was preceded in death by his parents, Gladwel and Ruth Witty Edwards.

Professionally, Barry dedicated 50 years of his life to his work as a mechanical contractor, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. He retired from Lyon's Company after 30 years of dedicated service. Following his retirement from Lyon's Company, Barry embarked on a new chapter by opening the Glasgow division of Knight's Mechanical, where he continued to excel for another 20 years. His commitment to excellence and his passion for finding innovative solutions to complex challenges distinguished him as a leader in his field.

Throughout his career, Barry took pride in being known as a problem solver in the industry, always willing to tackle the toughest challenges with skill and determination. His ingenuity and resourcefulness were legendary, earning him the trust and admiration of all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

He was actively involved at the local, state, and national levels of the Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association, where his expertise and leadership were invaluable. One of his proudest professional accomplishments was raising funds to endow the KAPHCC Scholarship. He served as a member of the board of directors for that organization for over 20 years, served one term as president in 1995, and was awarded the coveted 1884 First President's Award in 1999.

His commitment to public service extended beyond his professional endeavors. Barry served two four-year terms on the Kentucky Board of Housing Building and Construction, appointed by governors Brereton Jones and Paul Patton. His contributions helped shape policies and regulations that benefited the individuals across the commonwealth.

Barry's faith was a cornerstone of his life, evident in his 40 years of service as a teacher, deacon and later an elder at the Columbia Avenue Church of Christ. His unwavering commitment to his church family was a testament to his character and values.

In addition to his professional and civic pursuits, Barry found joy in giving back to his community as a former member of the Kiwanis Club of Glasgow, and as member of the Barren County Board of Education Engineering Council. Barry also enjoyed 4 years as a Glasgow Scottie Band Parent, serving with Steve Mayhew as co-chair to raise money for the purchase of new kilts from Scotland.

Beyond his accomplishments, Barry had a passion for raising Tennessee Walking Horses, finding solace and joy in the beauty of nature and the companionship of these majestic animals.

A funeral service to celebrate Barry's life will be held 2:00 PM Sunday, March 17th at A. F. Crow and Son Funeral Home with burial in the Summer Shade Cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday from 12:00 PM until time for the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to The Frances Edwards Scholarship of the Kentucky Association of Master Contractors 2123 Commercial Dr, Frankfort, KY 40601, or the Lewis County Tennessee Public Library, Library Expansion Fund 15 Kyle Avenue Hohenwald, TN 38462 in Barry's honor. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire and uplift us all. Please share your condolences with the family at www.afcrowfh.com.