James “Jim” Upshur Edwards III, a beacon of resilience and joy, passed away on December 19, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that embodies the celebration of a life well-lived. Born on September 19, 1946, in Manchester, NH, Jim navigated life with a disciplined approach, forged in the crucible of a Type I Diabetes diagnosis at the tender age of 11.
Jim’s journey through life mirrored the rhythmic strokes of a world-class swimmer. From his formative years at Williston Academy, a premier swimming institution in Easthampton, MA, to the currents of the University of North Carolina, where he swam on scholarship, Jim’s competitive spirit defined his aquatic prowess.
His commitment to fitness and nutrition, honed by the challenges of diabetes, manifested in daily pilgrimages to the YMCA. Yet, it was not just about physical well-being for Jim; it was a philosophy that radiated warmth and engagement. His engaging personality drew people close, savoring every moment with family and friends.
Beyond the pool, Jim navigated the currents of a successful career in international banking and dedicated himself to philanthropy, volunteering at an SBA start-up business incubator. His love for life extended to the culinary realm, with “regular” dining spots becoming the backdrop for cherished memories.
At the heart of Jim’s universe was his beloved family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret Anne “Maggie,” who stood by his side; his children, John David Burton and Andrea Edwards Scalia and grandson, Joseph Edmund Scalia. Jim’s familial bonds were unbreakable.
A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at Christ Episcopal Church, 1412 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC. The family will receive friends following the service in the Blue Room at the church. The service will be livestreamed at: https://www.christchurchcharlotte.org/funeral-live-broadcast/ for those unable to attend in person.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), 200 Vesey Street, 28th Floor, New York, NY, a cause close to Jim’s heart. As we bid farewell, let us remember Jim Edwards not for his final stroke, but for the vibrant ripples of a life lived fully.
Just numb reading this. Jim was just about the nicest person I have ever known. Gifted in many ways and incredibly humble. I saw him at the reunion when he was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame–hadn’t seen him since graduation. We gave each other a big bear hug. It was as if time had never passed. Talked forever. Full of life as usual. Same sense of humor. RIP my friend.
Sad news about Jim’s passing. Connected with on-line memorial service/celebration of life site to hear his son-in-law eloquently “swim” through Jim’s life, family, community and character. So many wonderful stories! Saw Jim swim against Yale Freshmen team at Williston in 1964…and against the renowned freshman free-style sensation, Don Schollander. Both were class acts…Schollander later made US Olympic swim team and Jim missed out by a second. Jim Edwards was understated, a gentleman, a challenger, a very hard worker and a really fun and loyal friend. RIP.
Every swimmer worked hard. But I don’t remember anyone who worked harder than Jimmy. We divers had our practice sessions every night after dinner. What a respite from the cold outside to be able to relax in that pool and its world class water. And over there in the far lane every night would be Jimmy, back again after the afternoon wind sprints, doing slow but endless laps. Every so often Babs would speed things up and time him with a stop-watch.
At our 50th, Kev Hoben told me that at some point after Williston Jimmy was ranked 2d or 3rd or 4th in the world in one of the distance events. I remember how in our senior year, when we met Yale in New Haven, Jimmy swam against Yale’s latest Olympic Gold medalist ringer. I recall the individual was Scholander, but at my age it’s likely I’m mixing things up and Don’s recitation is the more accurate one.