William "Bill" Edwards

William “Bill” Edwards, 87, of Vernon, husband of the late Helene Radjeski-Edwards, passed away Friday, July 24, 2026, at Masonicare in Wallingford. He was born February 27, 1939, in New Haven, son of the late Elmer and Lillian (Lupinski) Edwards.

Bill proudly served in the U.S. Army. He was a dedicated member of the Hamden Police Department, serving the community for 25 years, from 1962 until his retirement in 1987. During his career, he became one of the department’s first officers assigned to a K-9 unit, serving alongside his beloved police dogs, Heidi and Trooper. His work helped lay the foundation for the department’s canine program.. Throughout his distinguished career, he received numerous awards and accolades in recognition and service to the town of Hamden. After marrying the love of his life and best friend, in 1996, he and Helene embraced every opportunity for adventure together. They loved exploring the country, taking cruises, and camping in national parks throughout the US. Above all, his general passions were his family, Civil War reenactments, and rescuing Belgian Malinois dogs, with Duke being the most recent cherished addition to their family. He will be remembered for his great smile, blue eyes and light-hearted sweetness when he spoke.

Bill leaves behind his sons, William Edwards Jr. of MA, Mark (Maureen) Edwards of Cheshire and Ryan (Nina) Edwards of Wallingford; his daughters, Cheryl (Paul) Cartier of Hamden and Michelle (Timothy) Burke of FL; his 6 step-children; his brother George (Marie) Edwards of North Haven; 7 grandchildren, 13 step-grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren and 7 step-great grandchildren. Besides his parents and his beloved wife, Bill was predeceased by his siblings James Edwards, Maureen Jayne and Lillian Yoga.

Family and friends may visit at the Scott Funeral Home, 169 Main St, Terryville, on Tuesday, July 28, from 9:30-10:30 AM, with a service at 10:30AM. Burial with military honors will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Terryville. www.scottfuneralhomeinc.com

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