SPARTA-James “Jim” C. Edwards, 90, of Sparta, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, at Rolling Hills Rehabilitation Center in Sparta.
Jim was born on March 10, 1935, in Madison, Wisconsin, to Conan and B. Marjorie (Gottsch-Rice) Edwards. He graduated from Port Edwards High School and went on to attend college, later earning his Master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse.
Jim married Karen Hibbard in 1963.
Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army, including time stationed in Addis Ababa, Africa. Following his military service, he began a long and dedicated career in education. Jim taught school in Highland and Deerfield, Illinois, before returning to Wisconsin where he taught in West Allis for five years, at Franklin High School, and in Port Edwards for five years.
In 1972, Jim and Karen moved to Sparta where he continued shaping the lives of countless students. Throughout his career he served as a teacher, principal, football coach, and minister until his retirement in 1994. Jim was known for his commitment to education, leadership, and his deep care for the people and communities he served.
Outside of his work, Jim enjoyed golfing, cheering on the Green Bay Packers, and following Wisconsin Badger athletics. He cherished time spent with family and friends and will be remembered for his dedication, faith, and service to others.
Jim is survived by his wife, Karen Edwards of Sparta; daughter, Jo Ellen Edwards of La Crosse; siblings, Mary (Rich) Steege of Blaine, Minnesota; Sue (Scotty) Sheets of Madison, Wisconsin; and Jill (Jeff) Albro of Tullahoma, Tennessee. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, John Costick of Maryland and other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Michael J. Edwards; and sister, Sandra Costick.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with Scotty Sheets officiating. Burial with full military honors, provided by VFW post 2112 and American Legion post 100, both of Sparta, will be in Mt Hope Cemetery Sparta. A luncheon will follow at Trinity Lutheran Church, Sparta.
Family and friends are invited for visitation from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 and from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Wednesday, both at the funeral home. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation
