James Beverly Edmonds, Jr, 69, of Memphis, TN obituary

James Beverly Edmonds, Jr, 69, of Memphis, TN passed away on February 24, 2017. He was preceded in death by his parents Dr. James B. Edmonds, Sr and Beverly Jeanne Edmonds of Germantown, TN and a brother Dr. J. Daniel Edmonds.  Mr. Edmonds is survived by two brothers Dr. W. David Edmonds and John E. Edmonds, former wife Janet K. Cooper (Steven), two nieces Ann-Marie Kilpatrick (Jeff), Jeanette M. Edmonds, and a nephew W. David Edmonds, Jr (Jessica).  Mr. Edmonds was also a long-time resident of Germantown, graduating in 1965 from M. C. Williams High School at the top of his class. He graduated cum laude from Vanderbilt University with a major in Russian, a minor in Chinese, and an equivalent of a major in history, later teaching 7^th and 8^th grade history the first year in existence of Riverdale School. He then served as secretary-treasurer of the local Musician’s Union. Mr. Edmonds was an accomplished musician able to play several instruments, but his primary focus was the violin. He studied under well- known violinist and conductor Noel Gilbert.  He played with the Nashville Symphony while in college and later with the Memphis Symphony. During his years in music, Mr. Edmonds was a session musician, who played on several albums for various artists who recorded in the Memphis area, including Al Green, Elvis, Neil Diamond, the Bar Kays, Isaac Hayes, and Shelby Lynne.  He also played in the Central Church orchestra for over 20 years. Growing up, Mr. Edmonds was a member of Germantown Presbyterian Church. An avid reader, he also enjoyed such passions as cooking, old movies, and following his favorite baseball teams.  A memorial service will be held at 2 PM on Sunday, March 19^th in Evans Chapel (the old sanctuary) of Germantown Presbyterian Church at 2363 S Germantown Road.  A reception will follow in Warren Hall.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Germantown Presbyterian Church, the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, or a favorite charity.