Edwards was born in a small coal mining town in southwestern Virginia. Though of Appalachian origins, his family moved to Ohio when Edwards was two years old. There he received his formal education. Believing that the fool who taught himself was not nearly the fool who failed to learn, Edwards continued to educate himself throughout his life. Marrying shortly after graduating high school and beginning a family soon thereafter, Edwards went to work for an auto manufacturer in Mansfield, Ohio. Though he had dreamed for years of writing, his dream was not realized until his retirement, at which time he devoted much time to telling the stories that had filled his head since his youth. Now living near Bellville, Ohio with his wife, Edwards has three grown daughters who have given his wife and him seven grandchildren. Edwards is a member of the Sons of the American Legion. When not writing or enjoying too many drinks at the post canteen, Edwards spends time with family and friends.