Herbert Edwards Sr., real estate agent

Herbert Edwards Sr., 80, formerly of West Oak Lane, a real estate agent, died Tuesday, Jan. 31, at Maplewood Manor in Germantown of progressive supranuclear palsy, a brain disorder.

In 1962, Mr. Edwards opened an office in North Philadelphia offering notary and tax-preparation services. He established a real estate agency at the site in 1972, and also offered auto tags and appraisal services. He was known throughout North Philadelphia as a true professional and a savvy businessman, his daughter Eileen said.

Though his son Herbert Jr. now runs the office, Mr. Edwards stayed involved and visited regularly. He was still making phone calls from the nursing home, his daughter said.

He was past president of Associated Real Estate Brokers, an organization of African American brokers.

Mr. Edwards grew up in South Carolina.

During the Korean War, he served in the Navy aboard the Mount McKinley. The command ship was based in San Diego and participated in amphibious exercises off Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.

After his discharge in 1955, Mr. Edwards moved to Philadelphia, where he had relatives, and went to work as an inspector for Strick Trailers in Feasterville.

In the 1960s, while he ran his office, he was a life-insurance agent and sold real estate for two Realtors in North Philadelphia.

A talented photographer, he took pictures at family events, including weddings. He had a passion for planes, ships, and cars, especially Cadillacs and Mercedes-Benzes, his daughter said, and enjoyed gospel and rhythm and blues music.

Mr. Edwards was former chairman and member of the board of Taylor Memorial Baptist Church in North Philadelphia.

In addition to his daughter and son, he is survived by his wife of 55 years, Margaret Elaine Dodson Edwards; a son, Rodney; a daughter, Donna Dandridge; a sister; a brother; and six grandchildren.

A funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, at Christ Baptist Church, 1509 Church Lane. Friends may call from 9:30 a.m. Burial will be in Chelten Hills Cemetery.

Contact staff writer Sally A. Downey at 215-854-2913 or sdowney@phillynews.com.