Prior to his passing, Doug requested of Rick Ertel that classmates write him, so his wife, Vena, could read them to him. Rick got the message out through the website. Doug passed away Thursday, October 6th, 2022. Here is a note from Doug's wife:

On Friday, October 7, 2022, 11:35 AM, Doug Edwards <revdougedwards@yahoo.com> wrote:

This is Vena Edwards and I want to let you know that we really appreciate you putting that message on the school website. We received many notes from those who remembered him [Doug]. I must tell you with sad heart that he did pass away yesterday surrounded by his family. We’re all heartbroken but know that he has started to walk again, run again, be without suffering or disability. We will see him again when our time is done.