Dr. Jeffrey K Edwards, 78, passed away on December 29, 2023 at Terra Vista in Oakbrook Terrace, IL after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease.  He was born on June 2, 1945 to John Edwards and Elaine Edwards.

Jeff graduated from Northern Illinois University with a Doctor of Education in 1991.

He was a professor at Northeastern Illinois University in the Graduate School Department of Counselor Education from 1991 to 2010 when he retired.

He was a member of First Congregational Church of Glen Ellyn, IL and enjoyed playing guitar and singing in church. He also volunteered for DuPage PADS at the church serving food to the guests and making sure everyone was comfortable and cared for.

After retiring, he enjoyed photography. He took many classes at COD and The Morton Arboretum, was a member of The Morton Arboretum Photographic Society and won numerous ribbons for his art of photography.

Jeff was an amazing father, devoted husband, actively involved grandfather, loving father-in-law, brother and uncle, amazing friend and mentor. The lives he touched will always remember him as a passionate educator, elaborate story teller, loving caring family member, and an all around wonderful generous man.

We will always remember his love for family gatherings, the love he had for his wife, children, grandchildren and friends which knew no bounds. Camping trips, rock climbing, barbeques, traveling and just hanging out together - these memories will stay with us forever.

He is survived by his wife Betsy, son Jeff (Laura) Edwards and their children Owen and Katie Edwards, son Chris (Karen) Edwards and their children Lauden, Caden, and Keagan Edwards, and daughter Zoe Edwards (Brendan Johnson).

He is also survived by brother-in-law Gary Joseph and his family, Kevin (Tammy) Joseph, Kim (Steve) Lyth and sons Matt and Ben, Brittany (Becky Orr) Joseph and son Nova, and Chelsey Joseph (Darren Carter).

He is also survived by mother-in-law Theresa and her family, Dan (Sandra) and Steven, Sue (Dennis) and Kai, Darlene, Karen, Diana, Amanda (Jeffrey), and Jessica.

He was predeceased by John and Elaine Edwards, Jeri Joseph and Kathleen Edwards.

In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated to The Morton Arboretum through their Tribute Gifts page link. Tribute Gifts .  Note: To make an individual tribute gift, choose the option "Donation for honoree" and list Jeffrey K Edwards at the prompt.

Please feel free to dress casually; Jeff did not like suits or ties.