Edward French

Edward "Ed" French, a cherished father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on October 3, 2024, at Franciscan Health in Michigan City, Indiana, after a valiant battle with illness. He was born on December 10, 1941, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Ed's journey in life was marked by resilience, strength, and a deep love for his family and friends.

Ed grew up in Clarksdale before moving with his family to Gary, Indiana, at a young age. There, he attended Pulaski School and laid down roots that would grow deep and strong over the years. He spent his final years in LaPorte, Indiana, where he continued to be a pillar of strength and inspiration for all who knew him.

A dedicated worker, Ed retired from USS Steel Mill in Gary after more than three decades of service. His commitment to his work was matched only by his devotion to his faith.

Ed accepted Christ early in life and recently rededicated himself, his final words being a triumphant "I made it," accompanied by an enthusiastic thumbs up.

Ed was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Annie Queen; his son, Edward "Lil Man"; his parents, Monroe and Sarah Ann Baxter French; and his brothers, Pink Baxter Jr., Junior Bernette, and Albert "Dead eye" Davis. He is survived by his twin brother, Edgar (Barbara) French of Gary, IN; his brother, Raymond Baxter of Minneapolis, MN; and his sisters, Anne and Saundra Baxter of Minneapolis, MN, and Loretta (Nate) of Gary, IN.

Leaving a legacy of love and memories, Ed is also survived by his sons, Edward (Kristina Hernandez) of Joliet, IL, Anthony of Gary, IN, Edward (Crystal) of LaPorte, IN, James French of Miami, FL, Tony Love, and Dwayne French of Indianapolis, IN; his daughters, Bridgette Stanton of Sauk Village, IL, Yolanda French of Miami, FL, Tanya (Jose) Flores of Indianapolis, IN, Swannitha of Lafayette, IN, Tonya French of Indianapolis, IN, Melissa, and Keisha French, all of Miami, FL; and his bonus children, Janice and Mark Williams of Gary, IN.

Ed's life was further enriched by his special friend, Lilene Knox, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride. His family and friends will forever cherish his memory and the wisdom he imparted.

Music was one of Ed's greatest joys, with David Ruffin being his favorite artist. He appreciated all genres of music, with the exception of rap, which he humorously noted made no sense to him. His love for music was a testament to his vibrant spirit and the joy he found in life's simple pleasures.

Ed's life was a testament to the values of hard work, faith, and family. He will be remembered as a man who faced life's challenges with courage and who celebrated its joys with an open heart. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched, and his memory will be a guiding light for generations to come.

                                                                                             Rest in peace, Ed. You have indeed made it.

Funeral Services will be 11am, Saturday, October 12, 2024 at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church 2325 W. 21st Ave, Gary, Indiana with Pastor James Lane to give the eulogy. Viewing will be from 10am to 11am,  Saturday, October 12, 2024 at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church 2325 W. 21st Ave, Gary, Indiana. Burial will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

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