Edwin Clark Whitehead

Edwin passed away unexpectedly at 82, leaving behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy as rich as the soil he farmed.

Edwin was the real deal—a farmer through and through, tending to his family’s land as the fifth generation on their 1877 Century Farm. His life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and a love for family and friends and the land and animals for which he cared. Beyond the fields, Edwin’s kindness and willingness to lend a hand knew no bounds. Whether on the Agway Corporate board, leading the Ayrshire Breeders Association (Past President), or being an active member of his local community groups such as the Odd Fellows in New Milford, the Washington Cemetery Association, the Farm Bureau, and the New Milford 4-H Dairy club, Edwin was always there, ready to help.

A proud UConn grad with further studies at Cornell, Edwin never stopped learning or sharing his knowledge. He was the heart of many gatherings, known for his love of a good laugh, a good story, and his love of square dancing with his wife and partner, Marjie, to Larry Ayce’s band tunes.

Edwin was a familiar and beloved figure, consistently dressed in his signature green pants and shirt, often complemented by his straw hat when driving his tractor. Edwin’s joy was contagious, whether chatting with folks stopping by the farm or enjoying a “soda pop” at the Route 202 Tavern or White Horse with his buddy, Dan.

Edwin leaves behind a loving family—his wife Marjorie, his children Joe (and wife, Liza), Rachel (and husband,  Doug), and Jason (and wife, Liz), and his eight grandchildren, Katie, Zach, Beth, Spencer, Rob, Lorelei, Hank, and Ted, his two great-grandchildren, Meredith and Karly, and several nieces and nephews, who will miss him dearly. He was a son to the late Robert and Frances Whitehead and a brother to Susan Rood, with his sisters Nancy and Debbie passing before him.

Calling hours are Friday, April 12, 3-7 pm at Lillis Funeral Home in New Milford, CT. A memorial service for Edwin will be held on Saturday, April 13, at Salem Covenant Church in Washington, CT, at 12 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the Washington Ambulance Association and the Salem Covenant Church.

We’ll always keep Edwin in our hearts, remembering the smiles, stories, kindness, and love he shared with us all.