Rachel Edwards

Rachel Packett Edwards, 90, passed away Tuesday, March 14, 2023, at her home in Saluda. She was predeceased by her parents, Marion James Packett and Eunice Packett Odell; husband, William D. Edwards, Jr.; daughter, Ruth Ellen Edwards Hurley and husband, Walt Hurley, Jr.; and a sister, Betty P. Cole. She is survived by two sons, William D. Edwards, III (Jennifer), of Warner, and James R. Edwards (Rebecca), of Saluda. She also leaves to cherish her memory six grandsons, Michael, Marshall, Randy, Andy, and Quincy Edwards and “Trip” Hurley, III; three granddaughters, Kaitlin Sorrentino, Rachel Virginia Kittrell and Sarah Grace Ransone. In addition, ten great grandchildren, Sadie Vance, Annie Beau, Rece, Jake, Ava, Madison, Harper, Lacey Paige, Sawyer, and Liam; a sister, Peggy P. Straughan of Callao; a brother, Marion Packett, Jr. (Carolyn) of Warsaw; nephews, Cary, Winn, Marion James, and Curtis; and nieces, Valerie and Lori.

Rachel graduated from Warsaw High School and attended Mary Washington College. She was an integral part of the family business, Carlton & Edwards Lumber Company.

She will be remembered for her passion for hunting, gardening, her love of friends, family, and her many beloved dogs. As recently as two weeks ago, she and her sister, Peggy, rode around listening for the dogs running rabbits. Rachel was well known throughout several counties as an avid hunter. She was one of the founding members of Blakeys Hunt Club and it was not unusual to hear radio calls from grandsons and hunt club members, “Meme, where are the dogs running?”

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, March 19, at Forest Chapel United Methodist Church in Warner.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to your favorite charity or plant flowers in her memory.

Arrangements by Faulkner Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Saluda, VA.