It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Edwin “Ed” Augustus McPhail, Jr, 82, peacefully passed away on September 3, 2024, at his home with his family, after a hard battle with cancer. He was a bright spark in this world and will be deeply missed by many. His passing was an unexpected loss.
Ed was born on February 7, 1942, in Columbus, Georgia, as a child of Edwin Augustus McPhail Sr. and Louise Augusta Boland McPhail. Ed was one of four children. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin Sr. and Louise McPhail; his sister and brother-in-law, Martha and Frank Broz; brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Adrienne McPhail; brother and sister-in-law, Raymond and Lynn McPhail; and survived by brother John Michael McPhail.
After completing Jordan Vocational High School in Columbus, GA, Ed went to serve in the United States Navy. As a Naval veteran he served his country proudly and honored his country throughout his life.
In 1983, Ed and his fiancé, Mary Kate McCrary were married on August 28, 1983.
Today we lost an amazing boss, co-worker, friend, father and husband. As Ed “Pop” has made his way to the heavenly life but not after touching so many lives and hearts, and not to mention, over fifteen years of fighting cancer. He is deeply loved by his friends, family, and anyone that has had the privilege of meeting him. Not only did he love his wife and soulmate, but his kids and grandkids were adored and loved. His love for people was an amazing trait that most would call a “social butterfly” as he never met a stranger.
Ed loved spending time with his family and friends, as well his dog, Charlie. Ed loved Alabama football and NASCAR racing. You could always expect the television to be playing inside the house or his back deck when a game or race were on, and enjoying the comfort of a cold one surrounded by family and friends while something was on the grill. Ed was so much more than his struggles. He loved to cook, he never knew a stranger and would always make you feel welcome. He would do anything for a laugh. Anyone that truly knew him, knew he had such a big heart. He’d give you anything even if it wasn’t his to give. He could make you laugh even when you were mad at him. He loved fiercely and deeply, and we take comfort in knowing that Ed is now at peace surrounded by light.
He is survived by his amazing wife, Kate McPhail; his dog, Charlie; his children, Stephen Clark (Huntsville, AL), son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Misty Clark (Killen, AL) and son and daughter-in-law, Terry and Gwen Walker (Hattiesburg, MS), Edwin McPhail, III (Florida), Richard Dees (Ellijay, GA), Kimberly Moss (Waterloo, AL); and his eight grandchildren, Olivia Clark, Lilly Clark, Avery Clark, Zoe Clark, Celeste Hobgood, Tyrus Walker, Bailey Sanderford, Grace Sanderford and eight great-grandchildren.
