Racine – Edward Lee Dyess, Sr., 82, passed away at WFH All Saints Hospital on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. He was born in Enterprise, Mississippi on December 23, 1931, son of the late John Van and Alberta (nee: Williams) Dyess, Sr. Most of his life was spent in Racine, Mr. Dyess served with honor in the US Marines during the Korean War.

Edward was a supervisor at the Racine Water Department when he retired, and was proud to be the first African-American employee. He was passionate about playing golf, but liked other sports as well, cheering to the LA Dodgers, Brewers, and Packers. Edward wasn't one to just sit around the house. He enjoyed his daily walks and maintaining his physical fitness.

Mr. Dyess is survived by his children: Gary (Elaine) Jones, Randie Dyess, Grant (Karolyn) Dyess, Bobbie Dyess, Ann Dyess-Peterson, April (Francisco) Centeno, and Christopher (Jessica) Dyess; 23 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren and looking forward to the 24th; 2 sisters: Annie (Rama) Chew and Gloria Jean Walker; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, including his former spouses Gaynell Dyess, and Janice Dyess. He was also preceded by his son: Edward Dyess, Jr.; brothers: James, William, and John Dyess; and sisters: Lillie Mae Dyess, Edna Ruth Freeman, Alma Ruth Dyess, and Carol Light.

Funeral services will be held in the funeral home on Saturday, April 26, 2014 at 11am. with Rev. Richard Jones officiating. Visitation will be in the funeral home Friday evening from 5pm-7pm, and on Saturday beginning at 10am. Military Honors and Interment will take place at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery at 10am on Monday, April 28, 2014.

The Dyess family extends their heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the ICU staff at WFH All Saints for your kind and compassionate care; and to Liz, Tom, and Denise for always being there when Dad needed you.