Edgar A. Eubanks, Sr.

Edgar A. “Ajax” Eubanks, Sr., 81, died peacefully surrounded by family on February 7, 2018 at the John F. Keever Jr. Solace Center. He was born on June 4, 1936 in Asheville, NC to the late Romeo and Beulah Eubanks and graduated from Stephens-Lee High School in 1956.

His most cherished professional role was painting, giving selflessly of his time and talents not only to the school system but to the community as a whole. Edgar was employed for 32 years with Asheville City Schools before retiring. After being the 1st African-American hired in the Asheville City School Maintenance Department, he was promoted to supervisor and supervised a crew of five. Mr. Eubanks was responsible for painting, and the maintenance of football fields, tennis courts, gym floors and roof repairs for all Asheville City Schools.

While employed with Asheville City Schools, Mr. Eubanks was instrumental in helping other African-Americans get hired within the Maintenance Department. He served as a mentor to many students, and would often donate school supplies and lunch money to students who where in need.

Edgar was a hard working, trusted, faithful and dedicated member of Hill Street Baptist Church for many years. He showed unconditional love, compassion, kindness, and grace of the human spirit. His legacy is enormous, having touched many lives in both the public sphere and his family. He loved his children, and his beautiful life will forever be cherished and exemplified through their lives.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Eubanks; brothers, Jim Eubanks, Harry Eubanks, Jerome Eubanks, Johnny Eubanks, and Charles “Big Bird” Eubanks; sisters, Mary Brady, Betty Eubanks, Joan Short, and Rhea O’ Hannon.

He is survived by sons, Larry Eubanks (Joeiana), Edgar Eubanks Jr. (Rita), Michael Eubanks, and Derrick Wise (Emma); daughters, Gwendolyn Braxton (Ogden), Sarah Eubanks, and Denise Imes; sister, Mamie Shannon; grandchildren, Ina Braxton, Jin Braxton, Mia Braxton, Brandon Wise, Brittney Wise, Isaiah Eubanks, Michael Eubanks Jr., and Darnell Pickett; his nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and friends.

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