Edwina W. Drinkwater

Edwina Williamson Denham Drinkwater, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted follower of Christ, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on February 8, 2026, just one day shy of her 89th birthday. She was surrounded by family, embraced in love, scripture, and hymns, until she took her final breath here and her first in Heaven.

Born February 9, 1937, in Cordele, Georgia, Edwina lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and service. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles “Son” Drinkwater, with whom she shared a partnership grounded in faith and quiet devotion. Their marriage was a chapter filled with companionship and caregiving.

She is survived by her four daughters Darlene Jackson (Boyd, deceased), Carol Priest (Johnny), Valerie Powell (Bobby), and Susan Loach (Ken). She was a beloved grandmother to ten grandchildren; Caleb, Cody, Corrie, Chuck, Keri, Kristen, Craig, Nicholas, Andrew, and Hope; eighteen great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. Her family was her pride, her joy, and the heart of her ministry.

Edwina’s life was a living testimony of the Gospel. She did not just speak about God; she lived every moment as a reflection of His love. She began her faith journey at Calvary Baptist Church in Albany and was a longtime member of New Light Free Will Baptist Church in Morgan, Georgia, and in her later years, found deep community and spiritual renewal with First Free Will Baptist Church in Albany.

She devoted herself to ministry, especially with children and youth. Whether at summer camps, Vacation Bible School, or Whiz Kids, Edwina’s joyful presence and steady spirit touched countless lives. If you visited her home, you’d notice frog figurines in every room. She would smile and explain, “It means Fully Rely On God.” That simple phrase was her foundation, her faith, and her daily walk.

Edwina loved porch sitting, sunlight, gospel music, and a good story that often brought quite a punchline. Time spent with her always ended in encouragement. She would look at you with warmth and say, “God loves you, and I’m praying for you.”

Family and friends are encouraged and welcome to attend Edwina’s visitation at First Free Will Baptist Church in Albany, GA, Thursday February 12, 2026, 10:00-10:45 with a service to celebrate her life beginning at 11:00. A graveside service will be held at New Light Free Will Baptist Church in Morgan at 2:30 p.m.

Though she will be deeply missed, her life continues to echo in the hearts of those she loved. Her faith, her joy, and her kindness remain a guiding light for the generations she leaves behind.