Groton, VT – Lyle Harley Edwards, Sr., 90, of Minard Hill Road, died Saturday, March 24, 2018 at his home, with his family at his bedside.  He will be fondly remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

He was born in Haverhill, NH, October 3, 1927, a son of Harley W. and Orphie B. (Amidon) Edwards.  He was raised in Groton and graduated Groton High School Class of 1945.  He entered the US Navy in October 1945 and was discharged in October 1953.

Lyle worked for 40 years in the granite industry first at Zambon's, and then for  Gandin Bros. Monument Company in South Ryegate, working as a sawyer and stone polisher. He retired in 1990 after nearly 40 years in the industry, 29 of those years working for Gandin's.   Upon his retirement he and his wife Ellen made numerous trips about the country and Canada.

Lyle was a member of the Groton United Methodist Church and Men's Club.  He was also a member and past master of Pulaski Lodge # 58 F&AM of Wells River, and Ross-Wood American Legion Post # 20 of Woodsville.

Lyle truly enjoyed the companionship of his brother Les.  They rode motorcycles together, snow mobiled, traveled, cut firewood and gardened.  They also teamed up as horseshoe partners, winning numerous tournaments.  He was a master woodworker, as well as, a fine cook.

He was especially known for his quick wit and dry sense of humor.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years Ellen Louise (Bailey) Edwards, to whom he married on October 5, 1951, six children Lyle H. "Spud" Edwards, Jr, and wife Kitty of Westfield, VT, Sue Ellen Gorczyk and husband John of Montpelier, VT, Mark Edwards and wife Robin of Groton,  Carl L. Edwards and wife Lizbeth of Lyndonville, VT, Gale Lyn Edwards of Groton, and Jack C. Edwards and wife Laurie of West Newbury, VT,  13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren; two sisters Thelma M. Belyea of Woodsville, NH, Ruby Tinkham and husband Paul of Groton, and a brother Les and wife Bonnie of Groton; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  Lyle was predeceased by a granddaughter Mary Barbara Edwards on April 19, 2004.

Calling hours will be on Wednesday, March 28th, from 6 to 8 PM at Ricker Funeral Home, 1 Birch Street, Woodsville, NH.

The funeral service will be on Thursday, March 29th at 11 AM, in the Groton United Methodist Church, with Pastor Candace Ricker officiating.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Groton United Methodist Church, PO Box 157, Groton, VT 05046