Mrs. Thelma Sadler Edwards, age 87, of Sparta, NC passed away at her home on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, with her family at her side.  She was born in the Cabin Creek Community of Grayson County on March 28, 1937, to William and Florence Jones Sadler. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Clifton Reed Edwards, two sisters and two brothers.  Mrs. Edwards was a dedicated employee of Hanes for over 30 years prior to her retirement from there.  She did take a leave from the factory long enough to have her daughter and get her started in the first kindergarten class at Sparta Elementary School. She will be remembered as a dedicated wife and mother.  She faithfully attended Macedonia Free Will Baptist Church in Sparta, NC as long as her health permitted.  Mrs. Edwards was a celebrated cook whose chicken casserole was unsurpassed.  She delighted in big holiday meals with her family.  She loved tending her flowers and loved her cats, "Baby Girl" and "Precious."  The family deeply regrets her passing but rejoice in knowing that she has arrived at home to be reunited with all her loved ones.

She is survived by her daughter, Sandra and Wayne Rash of Elkin, NC; two special nieces, Pat Bare of Sparta and Missy Sadler of Woodlawn, VA; several nieces and nephews and a host of loving friends also survive.

Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, at 2:00  at the Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Kevin Hopson and Rev. Eddie Foster officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in the Sparta Cemetery.

Flowers will be appreciated or memorial contributions may be made to Medi Home Health Care and Hospice 403 S Main Street #101 Sparta, NC 28675.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to the staff of Alleghany Memorial Hospital and Dr. Arocha, Alleghany County EMS, and the caregivers at Medi Home Health Care and Hospice.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence, VA is serving the Edwards family.