The legacy of Bishop Marion Edwards was enhanced May 17 when Springfield United Methodist Church dedicated a new education and conference center in his honor. Edwards was a pastor and Springfield native who ascended to the highest ranks of leadership within the United Methodist Church before his death from cancer in 2011.

Located behind the church sanctuary at 301 North Pine St., the newly-remodeled brick structure previously housed the Springfield Post Office.

Edwards grew up in Springfield and was a member of the first class to graduate from the consolidated Springfield High School in 1957. The seven oaks that line Cleveland Street in front of Springfield United Methodist Church today were planted by Edwards nearly 60 years ago as part of his Eagle Scout project.

Many of Edwards’ childhood friends joined family and clergy members in the dedication ceremony and luncheon that followed. His widow and wife of 48 years, Linda Edwards Foster, noted that her husband’s early career path was supported by local Methodist minister Rev. Ernest Seckinger.

“Rev. Seckinger recognized Marion’s potential and encouraged him to apply for a scholarship to Young Harris College,” she said. “Marion was always very thankful for that early support and confidence in his abilities.”

With the continued encouragement and support of Rev. Seckinger and others, Edwards studied at Young Harris College and went on to graduate from Georgia Southern University and Emory University’s Candler School of Theology, where he earned both master’s and doctorate degrees in divinity. After many years of service, first as a Methodist minister, and later as a district superintendent, Edwards was named bishop of the Eastern North Carolina Conference from 1996-2004.

Edwards was affectionately known as “Big D” by friends and associates. He was remembered as a compassionate and visionary leader whose emphasis on missions led to the creation of a United Methodist seminary in Moscow, where the chapel is named for him and his wife.

Springfield United Methodist Church pastor Jerry Roe said Bishop Edwards lived his life so that all could see Christ through his actions.

“Because of his legacy of service and his passion for Christ, it is our prayer that all who enter the Bishop Marion Edwards Building will be blessed and experience God’s presence in a very real way,” he said.