Edward Julius Washington Jr

Edward Julius Washington, Jr., was born to Edward Julius Washington, Sr., and Julia Washington (Larry) on February 3, 1958. Edward had five brothers and sisters. Four of which preceded him in death, Raymond Powers, Sonny Powers, Brenda Edwards, and Beverly Simpson. With youngest brother, Gregory Washington as the surviving sibling. Edward had a surviving son, his 1st born, Edward Julius Rayvon Washington, who he called "King Mini Me." His youngest son Raymell James Christopher Washington, who he called Ray Boonie" preceded him in death.

Edward, affectionately known as Eddie to family and friends grew up in the City of East Cleveland, where he attended East Cleveland City School System. Eddie was a part of the Shaw High Class of 1977.  He was a member of the Shaw High Marching Band, Concert Band, and the Jazz Band (Rhythm Teens). Eddie was a very talented drummer and earned 8 music scholarships to HBCU's. He chose Morris Brown College in Atlanta, GA. He only attended a semester due to a breakdown in his scholarship funding.

After which, Eddie returned home and began working as a musician on the local scene, commonly known as the "Chitlin Circuit" where he was a local celebrity, very well know. Eddie also began working Security and Welding Jobs. He traveled on the road with Rick Hardimon's Trio and Glen Covington's Band. They played Harrah's Casinos in Atlantic City, and the Theatrical in downtown Cleveland. While on the road, Eddie met many celebrities who admired his drumming such as: Tellie Savalas & Eddie Cole. He also met Ella Fitzgerald and Johnny Griffin, to name a few.

In 1991, Eddie joined the East Cleveland Police Department in the auxiliary Traffic Unit. He worked as the corrections Officer, Dispatcher, and as a Court Bailiff. He wore many hats for the City of East Cleveland. In 1986, Eddie met Serita Nickelberry who also grew up in East Cleveland and attended Shaw High School. Serita was a member of the Marching, Concert and Jazz Band. Rita and Eddie, affectionately known as by family and friends, united in marriage on March 13, 1993. Due to fertility Issues, no children were born to this union. However, Serita enjoyed the pleasures of her two stepsons, Edward III and Raymell whenever possible. Eddie blessed Rita with a home, and many vacations early on in their marriage. They spent two weeks on the Big Island in Hawaii. traveled to the Bahamas twice, several trips to Pompano Beach, Florida, where they had a time share, and Ft. Lauderdale, FL., and they visited the Poconos several times when it was thriving. 

Eddie and Rita attended Parkside Church in Chagrin Falls, Ohio and have been members since 2000. Prior to attending Parkside Church, they attended Good Shepherd Baptist Church from 1992 to 2000, where they received their foundational truth about the Lord God. Eddie became born again in 1999. At that time, the Lord removed worldly vices from his life such as the love for alcohol and desire to be out in the world. Eddie was relentless about getting the gospel out to his friends and family. He always said, "When I die, I want the truth and the gospel told at my funeral."

He wanted everyone to know that they must be born again, and that Jesus Christ is the way the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father, but through Him. So, if you have eternal life and assurance of your salvation, you will see Eddie again in the Resurrection and in God's Perfect New Kingdom.   

Eddie was diagnosed with lung disease called Sarcoidosis in 1991. He struggled with his health for over 30 years. During that time, he also developed heart disease and had a Pacemaker implanted. During Christmas 2025, both Eddie and Rita were admitted to the hospital. Eddie was found to have a large blood clot on his heart. Eddie was discharged from the hospital on 12/29/2025 and Serita was discharged on 01/07/2026.

On Monday, 01/12/2026, Eddie passed away. I thank my Heavenly Father for holding and keeping me steadfast. Eddie was such a sweet person. He was so funny. He always had some whimsical saying. He'd keep you in Stitches laughing. A man of many words. He loved to talk. He was also Dr. Washington without the certificate. Could diagnose any situation. But, always had to be reminded his license was not valid. Everyone Loved him. He was a very special person who was transparent. Never any falsehood. Eddie was always willing and ready to give a helping hand.

I recall a story he told when he and his dad was driving down the highway and witnessed a motor cyclist crashing underneath a semi-truck. Without hesitation, he jumped out of the car onto the highway and pulled the man out from among the wheel well of the tractor Trailer. He once gave a stranger a lift who was struggling to walk down the street with multiple children and groceries. During some of Cleveland's brutal snow days Eddie purchased a powerful snow thrower, at which he would plow all the yards of our elderly neighbors.

Edward Julius Washington, Jr. Leaves behind his wife, Serita Washington (Nickelberry); Son, Edward J.R. Washington; Brother, Gregory Pierce Washington; Two very special Sister-in-Laws, Wynonda Nickelberry and Syeina Nickelberry; Grand Children; many Nieces, Nephews and Cousins.

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