Geraldine Darnell Edson

Geraldine Darnell (Olsen) Edson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2025. Born on August 30, 1948, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Ernest and Beverlee Olsen, Geraldine lived a life full of love, adventure, and unwavering dedication to her family.

A devoted wife of 54 years, Geraldine stood steadfastly beside her husband, David, throughout his military and civilian careers, supporting their family with strength and care. After David's retirement from 3M in 2006, the couple embraced a new chapter of life, traveling across the United States in their motorhome for five years. During their travels, they owned and operated a decal business, turning their journey into an entrepreneurial adventure.

In 2011, Geraldine and David made the decision to settle in Florida, spending several years in South Florida before finally calling Hamilton County home in 2023. Even then, their adventurous spirit remained. Together, they took on the challenge of farming, raising alpacas, donkeys, chickens, and growing their own vegetables—a testament to their determination and love for new experiences.

Through every stage of life, Geraldine was a constant source of love and encouragement for her family. She thrived in supporting them in all their endeavors, finding her greatest joy in their happiness and success. A woman of deep faith, she and David were members of Burnham Christian Church in Jennings, FL, where they found spiritual community and strength.

In her quieter moments, Geraldine found great joy in reading. An avid reader, she could often be found curled up with a good book, completely immersed in its pages. She had a deep appreciation for stories and could finish several books in a single week. She also enjoyed nightly phone calls with both her sister Linda and her lifelong friend from Minnesota (Cheryl Hughley)

Geraldine leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory. She is survived by her devoted husband, David; her sons, David Ernest Edson (Cathryn) of Merritt Island, FL, and James D. Edson of Jasper, FL; her sisters, Linda Jurjans and Jan of Minnesota; six grandchildren, Nathan Edson of Merritt Island, Emily Edson of Minnesota, Danielle Edson of Minnesota, Cierra Edson of Minnesota, Taylor Edson of Colorado, and Coty Edson of Montana; and two great-granddaughters, Lilly Torres and Ripley Torres of Minnesota and many nieces and nephews in Minnesota. She is preceded in death by both her parents and a sister, Susan DeBruin.

A memorial service to honor Geraldine’s life will be held on August 30, 2025, at Burnham Christian Church, a day that would have marked her 77th birthday. Geraldine's love, kindness, and unwavering support will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.⁹