Dorothy Irene

Edgar

Dorothy Irene Edgar was born to the late Robert Earl Benson, Sr. and Irene Barnes on December 20, 1939.   After a lengthy illness, Dorothy gracefully answered the call to go home and join her parents in eternal rest.  She closed her eyes on the morning of February 5, 2025.

Dorothy attended grade school in Englewood, NJ and went on to Dwight Morrow High School.  She would soon meet and fall in love with fellow student and athlete, Harold Edgar.  They married and shared a life of everlasting love for 61 years until his passing in 2021. Together they welcomed and adored twin sons Harrold & Darrold.

Dorothy believed in the power of education and proudly earned her Bachelor of Education degree from William Paterson University.  She was a kindergarten teacher in the Ringwood Public School system for over 38 years until she retired.  She was a key member of the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses where she was appointed  as a National Youth Supervisor, Debutant Coordinator and President of the Supervisor's Guild.

Having received Christ at an early age, she continued strengthening her relationship with Him all the days of her life.  Dorothy was a faithful and active member of her family's home church.  Shiloh African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church was her foundation for over 80 years. Throughout her membership she served her church and congregation in a variety of ways until her health prevented her from participating.

Dorothy was musically talented, a gift that she shared with her sons. Her melodic voice led her to travel the world with the Garden State Choral Chapter and could be heard from the pews still singing even throughout her illness.  Her voice was masterful whether spoken or in song and would often times serve as her comfort and peace. As a natural born leader, Dorothy was intelligent, resilient and fearless. She lived her life with grace and humility. Dorothy's zeal for humanitarianism, equal rights and for life kept her active in both her local and church community where she was very well known for her efforts. Throughout her life she was the recipient of numerous education and religious awards.

Dorothy will be eternally cherished by her sons Darrold Edgar and Harrold Edgar (ShaVonne), her sister Patricia Jackson (Deacon Roswell), grandchildren Amber and Christopher Holmes - Edgar and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews.  She also leaves many friends, neighbors and others who have been touched immeasurably by her wisdom, generosity, compassion and love throughout life's journey.

She is welcomed home to the Lord with loving arms where she will be received by her husband, parents, siblings and a host of loved ones.