Christine Anne Edwards

CHRISTINE ANNE EDWARDS was born on January 22, 1927, in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, to the late James Rhody Barnes and Alice Potete Barnes. She peacefully departed this life on November 16, 2012, at Stella Maris Hospice in Baltimore County, Maryland. She grew up one of nine children in Leonardtown, MD, where she attended grade school and graduated from Banneker High School. After graduating she went to nursing school and went on to work at St. Mary’s Hospital in the segregated section helping African American patients get equal care. She moved to Baltimore in the late 1940’s to live with her sister. She attended St. Peter Claver Catholic Church where she met James Morris Edwards who later became her husband. They married on July 2, 1950, and from that union produced four children: James Jr., Sheila, Marsha and Millicent. The family began attending mass at St. Cecelia’s Church and the children attended the school. She lovingly volunteered, supporting the nuns with transportation and assisting in the cafeteria. Through volunteerism, her generous spirit was apparent and she quickly garnered the respect of all – young and old. Christine was a homemaker and nurturer for the family. She always kept a beautifully adorned home and kept the children focused on God, family and their studies. The family always enjoyed annual out-of-state vacations and trips to visit family in St. Mary’s county. Christine displayed her strength and adaptability when, in 1968, her husband, James, Sr., was in a tragic accident that resulted in the loss of his vision. She immediately sprang into action and returned to the workforce to assist with providing for the family. Christine was compassionate, patient and resilient during those difficult times. Christine worked as a ward clerk at The Johns Hopkins Hospital performing clerical tasks. Later, she worked at the Montrose School for Girls and Boys where she counseled at risk-teens. She was promoted to cottage supervisor when her exceptional interpersonal skills in working with youth were noticed. After the Montrose School, Christine worked at the Methodist Board of Childcare in Randallstown, MD, where once again, her work with youth reflected her nature and kind spirit as a caregiver, nurturer, and advisor. She retired in 1979. In retirement she enjoyed traveling abroad with her oldest daughter, taking care of her grandchildren, and becoming an active member of the St. Cecelia’s Ladies Guild. Christine had a strong dedication to her faith and tremendous love for her family and friends. During her last years, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Yet, throughout her struggle with the disease, she remained faithful and prayerful as ever – always trusting in the Lord. She leaves to mourn: one son, James, Jr.; three daughters, Sheila Lundy-Moreau, Marsha Shird and Millicent Edwards Gordon; son-in-law, David E. Shird; five grandchildren, David T. Shird, Tiffany Lundy, Christopher Lundy, Megan Gordon and Shannon Shird; a granddaughter-in-law, Keisha Shird; four great-grandchildren, Joshua, David, Zion and Shiloh; two sisters, Catherine Dorsey and Veronica Moreland; and brother, Peter Claver Barnes; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Tributes

Christine Anne Edwards

January 22, 1927 - November 16, 2012