A celebration of life for Joseph Ray Edwards Sr. will be held at 3:00 P.M., Wednesday, May 23, 2018 in the chapel of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes of West Monroe. Visitation will be Tuesday, May 22, 5:00 P.M until 8:00 PM. Pastor Shane Warren and Pastor John Skipworth will officiate. Interment will follow at Kilpatrick Serenity Gardens, West Monroe under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes of West Monroe.Joseph Ray Edwards, Sr. Big Joey, age 61, from West Monroe, La. met his Lord and Savior face to face on May 20, 2018, surrounded by family and friends. Joey was born on January 7, 1957 in Montgomery, Alabama. He was the son of Ray Edwards and Bonnie Edwards-Knotts. Big Joey was a larger than life man. He was the most humble of men. He always took a back seat and never desired to be in the forefront. His integrity and faithfulness to Jesus and his family were spoken loudly not by words but by his actions and devotion. He loved his family something fierce. Anyone that knew him knew he had two fine sons, and one beautiful daughter that were the beat of his heart. His 8 grandchildren filled his heart with overflowing pride and joy. His wife Melonie, sweetheart of 42 years was his soul mate and best friend. Joey was a successful businessman his entire life. His work ethic was second to none and he passed this on to his own children. A huge void is felt by his absence and will always be felt. However, Joey made a decision many years ago that Jesus was his portion now and forever. That decision gives us the assurance we will see him again and until then we will strive to live a life that will make him proud.He was preceded in death by his father, Ray Edwards; brother, Andy Edwards; father and mother in law, Darrel and Rose Williams.Joey is survived by his wife, Melonie Edwards; three children, Joey Edwards Jr. and (Christa), Jeff Edwards and (Jennifer), Jacquelyn Cain and (Chris); mother, Bonnie Edwards Knotts, brother, Tim Edwards and (Kim); grandchildren- Kayla, Katie, Karoline, Molly, Allison, Cory, Cameron and Kaleigh; numerous nieces/nephews and a host of friends Big Joey has made throughout the years.Pallbearers will be Terry Cain, Mike Smith, Charles Brown, Larry Cash, Lucky Cash, Kade Brandon, Logan Murry, and Drew King.Special thanks to Dr. Blaine Borders and the Glenwood CVICU Staff.Online condolence messages may be sent to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com.Kilpatrick Funeral HomesWest Monroe, La.