OAK ISLAND — Sam Loper Edwards, Jr., 63, of Oak Island, NC passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2025, after a two-year battle with cancer.
Sam was born in Broward County, Florida on October 14, 1961, and was a husband to the late Karen Spell Edwards. He was preceded in death by his father, Sam Loper Edwards, Sr., and his son, Sam Loper Edwards, III.
Sam graduated from John I. Leonard High School in West Palm Beach. After graduation, he worked for Ranger Construction in West Palm Beach, Florida for a few years. Sam then entered the United States Navy in May of 1984 and served until May of 1990 as an active-duty sailor. He then entered the US Navy Reserves in June 1992 until June of 1999. He then enlisted in the US Army June of 1999 until March of 2007, where he served as a train brakeman and conductor. Sam then worked a few different jobs before landing a security position on the Military Ocean Terminal, Sunny Point (MOTSU). He worked various positions and ended as a surveillance Inspector in the Ammo Surveillance Department (ASD) on MOTSU. Sam was a real asset to MOTSU during his years of service.
Sam kept to himself and was a very private person, but once you broke his hard shell, he would become a good friend. He made many good friends during his years at MOTSU. Sam also volunteered and helped various non-profit organizations who provided offshore fishing experiences for disabled veterans.
Surviving are his mother, Emily Edwards; brothers, Jerrold Edwards, Ronnie Edwards; many cousins, uncles and aunts. Also, he is survived by two stepchildren, Jessica Rinciari, Casey Whaley; and numerous friends, neighbors and co-workers.
Sam requested there be no celebration of life service. He will be remembered by all who got a chance to get to know him.
The family requests that donations be made in his name to the American Cancer Society or mail to PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or to Hope Harbor Home.
