Audie Frances (Thornton) Edwards

Audie Thornton Edwards slipped away quietly and awoke to the roar of angels and the voice of her father saying, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." She was 90 years old.

Audie was born on October 9,1930, in Sampson County. She graduated salutatorian from Meadow High School in 1949, and eloped to Dillon, South Carolina, a few months later. She returned home to assist her husband on the farm and to raise children. Audie was an incredible cook and the epitome of a southern hostess, always encouraging her guests to "have all you care to."  She was a member of Friendly Holiness PFWB Church where she was a choir member, Ladies Auxiliary member, served as a deaconess, and enjoyed participating in the ladies' annual quilting bees.

Audie's favorite places were just behind the front row in church, across from family at a lively dinner table, in front of a good book, and beside Albert anywhere. She was driven by an unshakeable faith in God and a relentless compassion for others. Her legendary "Monday Night Suppers" were often crowded, but Audie insisted there was always space for one more. Those who had the blessing of loving Audie know that her tune has likely changed little as she finally rests among the saints at the banquet table of her eternal father.

She is survived by her children: Rosemary Moore (Carlton), Mark Edwards (Melissa), and Yvonne Hartley (Ronnie). She is also survived by her eight grandchildren: Christopher Moore, Jennifer Sawyer, Elizabeth King, Matthew Edwards, Michael Moore, Ashley Stroud, Lauren Edwards, and Jonathan Hartley. She leaves behind fourteen great grandchildren, and her three sisters, Katie Hawley White, Cathleen Britt, and Esther Wise. She was preceded in death by the love of her life and faithful companion of 70 years, Albert Edwards, by her parents Audie H. Thornton and Bessie Thornton, and by her brother, Carlton "Tot" Thornton. Audie laid to rest an infant son, Albert Dale, who she is now cradling again in her loving arms.

The family would like to express our gratitude and deep appreciation to our caregivers Carlton Moore, Shirley Cooksey, Janet Bradford, and the entire Hospice team.

A graveside service will be held at Hillcrest Cemetery in Newton Grove on Sunday, June 13, at 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Friendly Holiness PFWB Church building fund, c/o Rosemary Moore, 1298 S Jordans Chapel Rd, Mount Olive or 3HC, Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, 27534, c/o April Brantham.

Online condolences may be made at; www.westanddunn.com

Services have been entrusted to West & Dunn Funeral Home, Newton Grove, North Carolina.