Obituary of Edward Farris Alston

Edward Farris Alston was born on August 18, 1937, in New Tazwell, Tennessee. He was the fourth of five children to come from the union of the late Agnus (Logan) Alston and James Alston, graduating from Claiborne High School. He was extremely proud of his service in the United States Army, from October of 1961 until his honorable discharge in October of 1963, serving during the Cuban Missile Crisis.  The Alston Family suffered dearly for their love of country as Edward lost a brother with whom he was very close to, in the Korean War.

Ed married the former, Carolyn Lois Au in 1966.  The happy couple would raise two children together.  To provide for the needs of his family, Edward worked as Set-Up Machinist for General Motors Company at their Toledo, Ohio plant.  His career spanned thirty years before his retirement in 1995.

Edward was a God-fearing man that found his faith with the Southern Baptist Church.  He was also very fond of his family and a good meal.  Many of their get-togethers revolved around going out to eat and merely enjoying each other’s company.  If they stayed in, they typically played cards or other family-oriented games.  Although Edward loved both of his children, his special needs son Ethan was his pride and joy.  Even as his health declined, Ed worked hard to get discharged from wherever he was and to return home to his son.  A music lover, he enjoyed listening to Bluegrass and “Old Timey Country” especially the songs of Johnny Cash and George Jones.

Edward Farris Alston or “Papaw”, as he was affectionately known, age 86 went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday; December 21, 2023, at the Medilodge of Monroe.  His passing was preceded by his parents; two brothers; and two sisters.

To cherish his memory, Edward leaves his beloved wife of fifty-seven years: Carolyn Lois Alston; a daughter: Julie Ann (Tim) Alston; a son: Ethan Ed Alston; a granddaughter: Kayla Ann (Jake) Crain; and a great granddaughter: Bryleigh Ann Crain.

No public services are planned at this time.  Burial of his cremated remains will take place in the Spring of 2024 at Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle, Michigan.  His care has been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185.  Cremation has taken place through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.

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