John Edmonds

John Jules (JJ) Edmonds, 79, went to be with the Lord Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021.

He was born Nov. 22, 1942, in Pontiac, Michigan, the son of John H. and Louise Washer Edmonds.

He attended grade school at Trinity Lutheran, high school at Cape Girardeau Central and college at Southeast Missouri State University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education.

JJ spent most of his career teaching physical education and was known affectionately by all as simply "Coach." He genuinely loved each and every student and saw the best in each one. His tenure at Kelso (Missouri) C-7 and the lasting relationships built were one of the highlights of his life.

JJ attended La Croix United Methodist Church, where he was grateful for the teaching and impact on his walk with the Lord Jesus.

He had a passion for sports, especially baseball. At age 10, he became a local Little League legend. A rare hip disease forced him to play on crutches. He not only played, but helped his team win the city championship. JJ's other love was the "universal language" of music. He was an accomplished singer and loved singing hits from Sinatra and Basie.

But JJ's biggest passion was people. He had a unique way of connecting that few have. He loved everyone regardless of circumstance and poured his soul into each encounter, each conversation. He made people feel valued and loved, and this gave him the most joy of all.

He is survived by a loving son, Chris (Daphne) Edmonds of Cape Girardeau; two grandchildren, Devon (Claire) Edmonds and Christen Edmonds; two siblings, Lydia (Bill) Turner and Matthew (Brenda) Edmonds; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Chateau Girardeau Foundation or Adult and Teen Challenge in Cape Girardeau.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.