James (J.P.) Edwards, 69, of Salem, went to be with the Lord Friday, October 7, 2016. Preceding him in death were his parents, John and Eva Mae Edwards; brother, Randy Edwards; and sisters, Judy Switzer, Barbara Stump, and Drucilla Spraker. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Pat Edwards; son, Gary Edwards and wife, Brenda; daughter, Sheila Edwards; sisters, Audrey Ellis, Linda Concetto, Carolyn Edwards, Fran Fields, and Sharon Ferris; niece, Tracy Journell; great-nephew, Justin; special friends, Jake Keating and Carol Harrell; and numerous nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, October 9, 2016 at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, October 10, 2016 at Butts Cemetery in Salem, Va. Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com.