Hilda Ann Kendall Edwards

Mrs. Hilda Kendall Edwards, 73, of York, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family, just one day after celebrating her birthday.

Born on April 26, 1953, in Wadesboro, North Carolina, Hilda was the daughter of Rosie Belle Kendall and Arthur Lee Kendall. She graduated from Bowman High School in 1970, and on October 1, 1972, she married the love of her life, Marshall L. Edwards, known to many as "Pro." Together, they built a life grounded in love, resilience, and family.

Hilda's story was one of strength. From the cold winters of Wisconsin to the warm summers of Panama, life took her many places, but no matter where she was, she carried that strength with her. She faced numerous medical challenges over the years with a quiet determination that continually surprised even her doctors, most remarkably living more than 42 years with a kidney transplant. She did not just endure life's obstacles; she overcame them time and time again.

If you really knew Hilda, you knew her heart was found in the moments that brought people together. The kitchen was her stage, and she was, without question, the family's "Master Chef." Her meals were not just food; they were tradition, comfort, and love served at the table. In the spring, you could find her in her garden, nurturing life with the same care she gave to everyone around her, leaving behind blooms that will continue to grow in her absence.

She had a playful spirit that came alive around the game table. Whether it was Uno or Trouble, Hilda played to win. In Trouble, she proudly claimed her piece as "Red Bird," and she played with a competitive edge that was both legendary and unforgettable. She never wanted the game to end, and truthfully, no one else did either.

Hilda also shared her home and heart with many beloved pets over the years, each one treated as family. She is survived by her loyal companion, Roxie, who remained by her side.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Kenneth R. Kendall, and her parents. She leaves behind a family who will carry her strength and love forward: her devoted husband, Marshall L. Edwards; her sister, Linda L. Kendall Martin (Boyce); her brother, Alvin D. Kendall (Barbara); her daughter, Daphne E. McNeely (Keith) of York, South Carolina; her grandchildren, Dustin K. McNeely-Wall (Quinton) of Waynesville, North Carolina, Kobi L. McNeely (Mackenzie) of Smyrna, South Carolina, and Kallie A. McNeely of York, South Carolina; and her great grandchildren, Rowynn and Turner McNeely. She is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The tamily invites all who knew and loved Hilda to join them for a Celebration of Life at the family home in York, South Carolina, on May 2, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please contact a member of the family for the address.

In lieu of flowers or food, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Hilda's memory to the Lymphoma Research Foundation or the ASPCA.

And if there is a game of Trouble being played somewhere, we know that Red Bird is winning

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