Edward Little

Makanda - Edward F. Little, MSW died on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at 2:00 pm. His death followed a long illness. Edd died at his home surrounded by loving friends and in the arms of his husband of 53 years, Raymond B. Barone, Ph.D.

Edd was born in Chicago, Illinois on August 8, 1933. Edd was a bright student who completed high school at the age of 16 after skipping 2 academic years of traditional education. With his parents' blessing he joined the U.S. Navy and was stationed in the White House in Washington, D.C. in naval intelligence. He was assigned to President Harry Truman's staff who was affectionately referred to as "Uncle Harry".

After completing his military service, he enrolled in Chicago Teachers' College and earned a degree in Education. Thus began a long and illustrious career as an elementary school teacher.

He met Raymond, the love of his life in 1970 and they became partners until Edd's death. In 1975 Edd and Raymond moved to Southern Illinois where Edd became a teacher in Herrin Unit 4 Schools and Raymond became employed with SIHS. In 1985 Raymond began and finished a doctoral program in psychology and began a private practice in clinical psychology. It was at this point that Edd retired from Elementary teaching and earned another advanced degree in Social work at S.I.U.-C. He concluded his teaching career and retired from SIU's Department of Social Work in 2014 at the age of 80.

Edd earned many distinctions in his life. He was awarded THE MASTER TEACHER FOR THE STATE OF ILLINOIS in 1982. He was also a runner-up for NASA's TEACHER IN SPACE in 1985. He was a Hospice of Illinois board member and volunteer as well as a team member of NETWORK OF JACKSON COUNTY, 24 HOUR CRISIS LINE. He was involved in community causes throughout his entire life and was known as a compassionate friend, teacher, mentor and husband.

Edd is survived by his soulmate, Raymond and by a cornucopia of people who loved, respected and mourn his passing. Contributions in his name may be made to St. Francis Animal Shelter in Murphysboro, Illinois.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Edd visit www.meredithfh.com