Deacon Edward C. Rambo

Edward Charles “Sam” Rambo was born on September 28, 1940, in Ringgold, Louisiana, the 11th child of Emanuel and Lizzie B. Rambo. At an early age, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and was baptized. His faith remained a cornerstone of his life, guiding his deep love for God and his family. Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Emanuel and Lizzie Rambo; his sisters, Geneva Fisher; Lula B. Love; Jessie B. Johnson; Delleaner Roberson; Lottie B. Marks; and Erma Simmons; his brother, Albert Rambo; his son, Eric Tyrone Rambo; and his granddaughter, Latefa Baker. Affectionately known as “E.C.” in his early years, Edward’s parents officially named him Edward Charles Rambo when he began school, though he was best known as “Sam” throughout his life. With a strong sense of responsibility, he left school early to help support his family, completing an 11th-grade education. At 19, he moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where he met and married the love of his life, Patricia A. Conway, in 1962. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising six children and two grandchildren in a home filled with love, laughter, and the aroma of his incredible cooking. A gifted and accomplished cook, Edward built a reputation as a Certified Baker and Chef, renowned for his wedding cakes, teacakes, hog head cheese, and homemade BBQ sauce. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, his home and table were always open, ensuring no one ever left hungry. Never one to shy away from hard work, Edward expanded his career by joining the Local 10 Ironworkers Union, becoming one of the first Black men to do so. As a Journeyman Ironworker and certified welder, he specialized in bridge construction, leaving a lasting mark on Kansas City’s skyline. Many who cross the city's bridges unknowingly travel across his legacy. His knowledge and craftsmanship were not his alone, he mentored his son-in-law, nephews, and friends, helping them secure careers in the trade and build better lives for their families. Beyond his professional achievements, Edward was a pillar of his community and church. For over 35 years, he served as Chairman of the Deacon Board at Sunlight Church, earning respect as a teacher, leader, and advocate of faith. His influence extended beyond the church walls, serving two terms as President of the City-Wide Deacons Fellowship. He found joy in singing in the male chorus, fishing, and fixing things, always keeping busy until he no longer could. Edward was a man of wisdom, honesty, and fairness. He spoke the truth with love and encouraged those around him to do the same. Above all, he was devoted to his family, always reminding them to love one another as God loves us. Edward leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 63 years, Patricia Rambo; two sons, Vincent Simmons of Dallas, TX; and Roger Rambo of Kansas City, MO; four daughters, Jackie Williams; Stephanie Early; Diane Walker (Kenneth); and Estella Rambo all of Kansas City, MO; two brothers, Rev. Emanuel Rambo Jr.; and Rev. Julius Rambo Sr. (Louise); two sisters, Lizzie Ashley; and Glossie Love; 18 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and loved ones. His love, wisdom, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday April 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Sunlight Missionary Baptist Church 4444 Woodland KCMO 64110. Interment: Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation: 9-11:00 a.m. at the Church. Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapels. Condolences may be shared on our website lawrenceajones.com.

Deacon Edward C. Rambo

October 28, 1940 - March 21, 2025