Edward Clarence Underwood

“Well done thou good and faithful servant: thou has been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of the Lord.” Matthew 25:21 Early January 16th, 2026, God summoned his faithful soldier Edward Clarence Underwood home. Edward was born on August 12th, 1927 in Clinton, NC to the late James Underwood and Maggie Kirby Underwood. Edward attended public schools in Clinton, NC where he was recognized as an avid history enthusiast and a skilled debater. Edward demonstrated his strong work ethic and commitment to responsibility at an early age. As a young boy, he challenged his then boss to pay him the same wages as the grown men working in the fields. When he proved that he was producing as much, if not more cotton bales as the “grown men”, he was then paid accordingly. As a young teen, he managed the popular restaurant in Clinton, The Moses Ray Cafe’. He always worked and dealt with people in a fair and respectful manner. Edward relocated to Harlem, New York in the 1940’s with his parents and six brothers. He landed a position as machinist and excelled in this trade. His skill was recognized by his boss who then paid for him to learn specialized training for the newest machinery that only Edward knew how to operate. One of the highlights of his work as a machinist is when they used the screws that he made to build the Apollo 11 spacecraft which was the first to land men on the moon. Edward competed as an amateur boxer with the New York Golden Gloves in Madison Square Garden. He later met and married Edna Johnson. They lived in Queens, New York and were blissfully married for 64 years. That beautiful union produced two children Ronnie (deceased) and Rosa Underwood. Together, they were perfect parents and cherished Grandparents! They were members of Brooks Memorial United Methodist Church for over 50 years where Edward was an active Trustee. After retirement, they relocated to Latta, South Carolina and then he moved to Charlotte, NC in 2016 to be close to his daughter. Shortly after his move to Charlotte, he became a member of O’Zion AME Zion Church where he became a member of the Trustee Board. He loved his church family and met a very special friend, Alberta Massey. Edward’s wisdom, counsel, and advice were sought by many and appreciated by all and will be deeply missed. He guided and touched so many lives. Those remaining to honor his memory are: daughter, Rosa Underwood (Charlotte), Three granddaughters: Kianga Rickson, Tianee Eiland (Ronald), Alea Harrison (Gregory). Six great-grandchildren: Toj Strickland, Selah Strickland, Chans Strickland, Quest Jones, Ayla Harrison, & Ayris “Puddin” Harrison. Edward is also survived by a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, neighbors, and dear friends.

Edward Clarence Underwood

August 12, 1927 - January 16, 2026