Edwin Lee Upchurch, age 64, passed away on June 28, 2022, at his home in Bokoshe, Oklahoma.
He was preceded in death by his parents Jackson Lee Upchurch and Ruby Pearce Upchurch.
Ed is survived by his wife of 42 years, Linda Upchurch and their children Amanda “Mindy” Pope, Stephanie Upchurch, Eric Upchurch, and Zachary Upchurch, and grandchildren, Jayden Pope, Reagan Upchurch, and Maleah Pope.
Ed grew up in Little Rock Arkansas riding horses and racing dirt bikes. He was always a hard worker who moved up the ranks to a manager position in retail before leaving that position to work as a Tailor for Tom James Custom Clothing. It was this position that moved Ed and his family to Fort Smith, AR in 1988. Ed had a lifelong love of motorcycles and was well known for his time as a motorcycle safety coach sharing his enthusiasm with both new and experienced riders. He was also involved in various lives through the community from his nearly 30 years in the real estate industry: as an agent, a broker, a “flipper,” and eventually a mortgage lender. When Ed decided he was finished working in an office, he resigned his suit and tie to begin a successful lawn care business. Additionally, Ed maintained a small homestead; gardens and livestock were another constant in Ed’s life since childhood. His most recent accomplishment landed him a brief “Pit Stop” in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Ed never had a dream he didn’t chase and he never met a challenge he couldn’t overcome. This includes various water activities like sailing, scuba, skiing, and more, becoming a pilot, making cross country trips (and even sneaking into other countries for a bit) on his motorcycle, and a brief stint as a long-haul truck driver. From the seas to the skies and everywhere in between, Ed truly lived a remarkable life. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was adored by many and will be forever loved and sorely missed. Our family is grateful to all who prayed on his behalf and otherwise sent well wishes his way. Ed is now at peace.
In recognition of his love of the outdoors, in lieu of a traditional ceremony, the family has opted for a brief gathering to be held at Sallisaw Creek Park to remember Ed and celebrate a life well-lived. This memorial will be held on Thursday, July 14, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. on the east side of the park and led by his brother-in-law David Ratliff. If others would like to speak, they are welcome, but please keep your time brief to allow others an opportunity to share and visit. If you would like to share any special memories of Ed, his family requests that you write those down and leave them with the family to be enjoyed together at a later time.
Arrangements are under the direction of Forever Memories Funeral Services
463505 Hwy 101, Sallisaw, OK 74955
Fmfsinc.com
