It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Robert "Sonny" Edward on December 17th, 2025.  Sonny was born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, but made Portsmouth his home.  He was a graduate of Maury High School and continued his education at Old Dominion University, where he earned his BA in Music. He attended Peabody Conservatory at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland where he earned his MM in organ performance.

Sonny subsequently returned to Hampton Roads where he served as organist/choir master at the Church of the Holy Family, Great Bridge Presbyterian Church, Freemason Street Baptist Church and Broad Street United Methodist Church. He later returned to school to become certified as a public-school teacher.  He taught elementary music in Portsmouth public schools for twenty-five years.

Sonny loved the water and enjoyed vacationing in Ocean City, Maryland and Urbanna Virginia. He also enjoyed his favorite place: The Coffee Shop, where he could be found almost every morning, sipping his coffee and sitting in his favorite chair.  Sonny had a strong faith in God and was a firm believer in prayer.

Sonny was predeceased by his beloved grandparents, Otis Wesley and Adelaide Harrell McGehee.  Left behind to cherish his memory are his dearest friends, Seth Perlman, Nick Nespoli and Judy Vogan Boone.  He also leaves behind his dear friend and colleague Pamela Walton, his devoted housekeeper Crystal Harrison, and many extended family members.   A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 6th, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Court Street Baptist Church and a reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Court Street Baptist Church, 447 Court Street, Portsmouth, VA 23704.