Edward Lee Cavender

Edward Lee Cavender, 87, of Charleston went home to be with the Lord on Friday, July 10, 2026.

He was born on February 5, 1939, in Charleston, WV to the late Jarrell and Hazel Cavender.

Ed graduated from Stonewall Jackson High School in 1957. One of his greatest joys and accomplishments was that he obtained his private pilot’s license while in high school, which led to his interest in joining the Navy. Upon graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He retired as a Chief Petty Officer after 22 years of service. He retired in August 1979 and worked a brief time in Nellis, WV at Nellis Motor Sales as a mechanic. Ed eventually worked for the Rite Aid Corporation at the Poca Distribution Center. He worked as a diesel mechanic for 20 years until retirement. He was a lifelong member of Starcher Baptist Church in North Charleston, WV. He served in various positions and was an ordained deacon. Ed was a talented artist over the years. For the last ten years, he has been doing intricate paint by number paintings. Thirty or more of those paintings have been gifted to family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Ann Vickers and his youngest son, David Wayne Cavender.

Ed is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Margaret; his sons, Marshall and Jarrell; his daughter Sarah Musick (the late Ken Musick). Papaw was blessed with six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

The family wants to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at CAMC General’s ER and NSICU. They also want to thank the staff at Hubbard Hospice House in Charleston.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, July 16, at Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar, officiated by Pastor Dave Workman.

Family will welcome visitors one hour prior to the service.

A graveside service will take place at Grandview Memorial Park in Dunbar following the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, consider sending a donation in Ed’s name to Starcher Baptist Church.

Starcher Baptist Church, P.O. Box 10117, Charleston, WV 25357

www.kellerfuneralhome.com