Charlotte Ann Edwards

Charlotte Ann Edwards (née Arrington), 76, passed away on March 2, 2025, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Born on August 29, 1948, in Lorton, Virginia, Charlotte lived a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Charlotte was the beloved wife of Donald Edwards, with whom she shared an extraordinary bond spanning nearly six decades. Their love story began in grade school and blossomed into a lifelong partnership. They were married on September 3, 1966, at Takoma Park Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., beginning a journey that would take them across the country and around the world. From Maryland to South Carolina, California to Germany, and finally settling in Virginia Beach, Charlotte embraced each new chapter with grace and warmth. No matter where life took them, she made every house a home.

Together, Charlotte and Don raised three daughters: Leslie Edwards-Clark (Brian), Shari Edwards-Merry (Edward), and Deanna Ross (Jason). Charlotte poured her heart into motherhood—handmaking curtains and clothes, crafting Halloween costumes, assisting with school projects—and always ensuring her daughters felt supported and loved. Her pride in her family was evident in everything she did.

Charlotte was affectionately known as “Nana” and “Great-Nana” to her cherished grandchildren: Kimberly Edwards (Frank Meredith), Krissy Bly (Nathan), Alexis Rosas, Anthony Clark, Matthew Clark, Timothy Griffin (Jaymie Burd), Jackson Griffin, Alexander Pineda, and Riley Merry; and great-grandchildren: Brycen Dixon, Piper Meredith, Frankie Meredith, and Mayleigh Bly. Her legacy continues through each of them.

She is also remembered by her sister Linda Clark (John); niece Rebecca Dickerson (Mark); nephews Jim Messersmith, Eric Messersmith, and Wayne Simpson (Kim); as well as many extended family members and friends who were touched by her kindness.

Charlotte was predeceased by her parents Thomas and Elizabeth Arrington (née Howard); sister Sandy Simpson; nephew Charlie Kerill; aunt and uncle Mary and Gary Messersmith; sister-in-law Debbie Edwards; brother-in-law James “Jimmy” Edwards; and parents-in-law Charles and Nema Edwards.

A woman of many passions, Charlotte loved to travel the world with Don by her side. She found joy in entertaining guests at home, always welcoming others with open arms—and took great pride in her garden. Her laughter was infectious; her spirit vibrant. She had a gift for making people feel special simply by being herself.

A Celebration of Life will be held in late June at their home in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life so beautifully lived. SPECFIC DETAILS WILL BE PROVIDED AT A LATER TIME.

Charlotte’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. As we reflect on the joy she brought into our lives: “Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”