Karlene Edwards

Karlene E. Edwards passed away unexpectedly on April 4, 2025, in West Jordan, Utah. She was born on August 19, 1941, in Culver City, California, to Afton Nelson Newbury and Carl J. Edler.

Karlene was a vibrant, passionate woman who lived her life with energy, purpose, and deep love for her family and community. She had a zest for life and a heart full of generosity.

Throughout her life, Karlene achieved many accomplishments. She served as President of Beta Sigma Phi and helped establish the Bobby Sox Softball program. She was often seen at team roping events, doing timekeeping and managing entrance fees with dedication and a smile. She also served as Treasurer for the Grantsville Senior Citizen Center, where she dedicated countless hours organizing events, playing Bunco and Bingo, and spreading joy to those around her.

Professionally, Karlene worked as an administrative secretary for Delta Fire Systems, where she became a beloved figure among the engineers and shop employees. Affectionately known as “Mom,” she cared for everyone and made the workplace feel like home. She was also one of the very first switchboard operators at the National Bell Telephone Company, working there from her senior year of high school until 1961 when they went analog.

In her earlier years, Karlene loved gardening, canning, crocheting, quilting, and knitting — creating warmth and beauty in everything she touched.

She married the love of her life, William “Billy” Gressman Edwards, on February 20, 1960, in the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas. Their love began right after high school and blossomed into a lifelong partnership filled with devotion and joy.

Together, they raised four beautiful children: William Michael Edwards, John Scott Edwards, Jay Kevin Edwards, and Lori Jo Edwards (Whatcott), along with son-in-law John Whatcott. Her children were her world, and she gave them her complete love and support.

Karlene had three siblings: Jay Edler, Joseph (Joe) Edler, and Jill Blundell Cammack.
She was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren: Cameron Edwards, Mandy Galvez, Candice, Chase Edwards, Jay Lee Edwards, Jayde Edwards, Sammie Jo Pierce, Kirk Pierce, Alexis Whatcott, and Zack Whatcott; twelve great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, William Gressman Edwards; her parents, Afton Nelson Newbury and Carl J. Edler; her brother, William Joseph Edler; and her grandson, Jay Lee Edwards.

Karlene will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her warmth, strength, and the unconditional love she gave so freely.
A graveside service and luncheon will be held in May
(Date to be announced)