Bluefield University mourns the loss of Trustee Emeriti and former Interim President, Dr. T. Keith Edwards, who went to be with the Lord on the morning of Thursday, November 21, 2024. Edwards, age 95, was a well-known figure in the community of Bluefield. A physician by profession, he was a long-time supporter of Bluefield College. He served several terms on the Board of Trustees beginning in 1974, and as interim president of Bluefield University in 1996-1997.
Edwards’ life was marked by service. Prior to his arrival at the university, he and his wife, Alice, were medical missionaries in Nigeria, West Africa from 1957 until 1968. As recounted in David Armbrister’s “Lighthouse on the Hill: The Bluefield College Story,” Edwards was known for his integrity, honesty, and character.
During his term as Interim President, Edwards instilled confidence in those serving under his leadership, unifying the faculty and staff while strengthening the institution’s reputation and financial status. His brief tenure brought significant improvements to the campus, including a new roof for Cruise Hall, a tennis complex, and new computers. Additionally, he secured $300,000 in gifts toward a new art complex.
In a 2008 letter to the Board Chair, Dr. Dan Grabeel, Dr. Edwards said, “My year as Interim President is remembered by both Alice and me as one of the sweetest years of our lives. It was an honor to work with faculty and administration, men and women who feel just as called to Christian Education as any preacher feels called to the pulpit.”
His memorial service will be held on Monday, December 2, from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. at Sweetwater Baptist Church in North Augusta, South Carolina. Additional information and his full obituary are available on the Posey Funeral Directors website.
Those who wish to honor Edwards’ legacy by financially supporting Bluefield University may visit bluefield.edu/giving. Contributions may also be mailed to Bluefield University, 3000 College Avenue, Bluefield, VA, 24605.