Edward Earl Abrams

Edward Earl Abrams aka ‘Junebug’, was born November 30, 1931 in Hub, Mississippi to Will Abram and Viola Jefferson Abram. Edward was born 8th in what would grow to be a family of 15 children! Edward’s earliest memories were of learning and reciting poetry under the loving direction of his highly respected older sister, Peggy Joyce. Peggy Joyce lit a flame and passion in Edward that he carried with him throughout his life, literally until his final day. When Edward was 15, his younger brother Rudy, ran to the field where Edward was plowing and stated that their older brother, Flen, had ‘sent’ for Edward to go live with Flen in California. Upon hearing the good news, Edward abandoned his mule, ran home in disbelief and asked, ‘Mama, is it true?’ His dear mother replied, “You’ve been a good boy and you work hard, so I’m going to let you go to California”. Throughout his life, Edward said that was the very best day of his life! Upon arriving in California, Edward settled in West Oakland and attended McClymond’s High School. At 17, Edward left school, falsified his age and joined the National Guard. Edward served two years active duty in the 719th Gun Battalion and cultivated many solid friendships. It was in the service that Edward’s surname changed from Abram to Abrams due to a typo. In 1950, Edward began his civilian career at Naval Air Station and then Naval Supply Center. In 1954, Edward married Ruth Cochran and had two beautiful daughters: Annette Carol and Rachelle Mylease. Sadly, their marriage did not last. In 1964, Edward married Rose Anthony and became a proud father to Keith Lamont and three years later, Kimberly Lynn. Upon marrying Rose, Edward also inherited a big, beautiful family of in-laws that wholeheartedly welcomed him into the family and loved him dearly. In 1978, Edward founded The Family Resource House of Unity, a non-profit, community-based organization designed to address the economic, social and academic needs of African-American families residing in Oakland. Edward brought a message of empowerment to Oakland via guest speakers such as Dick Gregory and Dr. John Henrik Clarke. Edward also hosted a community-based television show entitled O.U.R.S. Hour (One United Resource System) on Soulbeat Television. Another of Edward’s great passions was organizing tours to introduce Oakland residents to Allensworth, the only California town founded, financed and governed by African Americans. Edward was a cherished, respected and busy Oakland activist and videographer who received many accolades, awards and honors for his dedication to the Oakland community. In 2007, Edward bid farewell to his beloved Oakland and moved with his wife to Austin, TX. Edward developed dementia about 4 years ago; however, his wife and children remained etched in his memories; as well as treasured poems he learned almost 100 years ago! Edward relocated to Oakland on December 30th and passed away peacefully, at rest, one week later. Edward is survived by his wife of 60 years, Rose Abrams; Three children, Annette Natt (Willie), Keith Abrams (Brennita) and Kim Abrams. Daughter, Rachelle preceded him in death. Edward was a treasured grandfather and was lovingly revered by Bryan (deceased), Marques, Tiffany, Nicholas, Nathan and Masaia. Of Edward’s beloved 14 siblings, twelve preceded him in death; his two younger sisters, Gladys Book and Mary Frances Brewer continue the legacy of ‘The Fabulous 15’. Edward will be cherished forever in the hearts and minds of his wife, children, grandchildren, great- grandchildren, sisters, in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. May the Ancestors Warmly Receive Him Home.

Tributes

Edward Earl Abrams

November 30, 1931 - January 5, 2025