Gilbert Brian Edwards, 56, of Russell, died April 17, 2011 in Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital.
He was born Dec. 23, 1954, in Portsmouth, Ohio, a son of the late Gilbert and Virginia Edwards.
He received his master's degree in counseling and worked 20 years for the Counseling Center in Portsmouth to help those with substance abuse problems. He loved working and was very active in A.A. He was a lifelong musician who was an awesome guitar player and was known throughout the community for more than 40 years. In addition to his family, he was most proud of inspiring other youth artists.
Surviving are his wife, Marianne Lenhardt Edwards of Russell; daughter, Anna Chela Hill Edwards of New Boston, Ohio; stepsons, Keith Prager of Louisville, Danny Prager of Portsmouth, and Scott Prager of Russell; a sister, Elizabeth Edwards of Washington, D.C.; and grandchild, Elijah.
The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 21, 2011 at Steen Funeral Home-Central Avenue Chapel in Ashland by Pastor Clarence Parker. Burial will be in Rose Hill Burial Park Mausoleum.
Friends may call from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, friends may make contributions to The Counseling Center, 1634 11th St., Portsmouth, Ohio.
Online condolences may be sent to steenfuneralhome.com.
