HOLMES BEACH – On New Year’s Eve, BlueWave Restorations co-owner Jason Edwards, 51, was fatally electrocuted in Anna Maria while assisting a friend.
After Edward’s passing, the Holmes Beach-based company formed in early September issued a press release that says, “On New Year’s Eve, Jason tragically passed away at a private residence on Los Cedros Drive in Anna Maria while helping a friend connect electric to an RV. It was ruled an accidental incident and that Jason died instantly.”
The press release notes the property owner where the accident occurred was a former BlueWave Restorations client but was no longer an active company job site.
“Jason had connected his friend with the property owner as a personal favor – a testament to his selfless and giving nature,” the press release says.
“Jason Edwards was more than a leader at BlueWave Restorations; he was the heart of the company. Known for his joyful spirit, unwavering kindness and ability to lift everyone around him, Jason embodied the company’s commitment to serving the community with compassion and care. Jason’s light touched not only his co-workers and clients but also the broader Anna Maria Island community,” the press release says.
In the press release, BlueWave Restorations co-owner Pete Dospel said, “We are heartbroken by the loss of Jason. He wasn’t just my business partner; he had become one of my closest friends. Jason’s dedication to his work, his community and the people in his life was unmatched. His generosity, integrity and infectious positivity will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”
In the press release, Edwards’ longtime colleague and friend, Gabe Lugo, said “Jason wasn’t just my coworker; he was my brother. He had this incredible way of making everyone feel valued and seen. Whether it was a tough day at work or a personal struggle, Jason was always there with a smile, a kind word, and a helping hand. His absence leaves a hole that can never be filled, but his memory will live on in the way he touched our lives.’”
The press released noted BlueWave Restorations suspended its operations for the remainder of the week and any impacted clients would be contacted this week regarding their ongoing projects.
The press release says Edwards “built a life defined by generosity, warmth and service to others” and “Jason’s legacy will live on through the company’s dedication to the values he so deeply embodied – kindness, generosity and excellence.”
MEMORIAL SERVICE
According to the press release, Edwards was born in Newport News, Va. on Feb. 20, 1973. He moved to Winter Springs as a young child, attended Oviedo High School, in the greater Orlando area, moved to Bradenton with his family in 1991.
According to the updated press release, Edwards is survived by his mother, Diane Edwards, his father, David Edwards, his brothers Aaron and Andrew Edwards, his sister Megan Edwards, his nieces Alexis, Freya and Audrianna and his nephews Tyler, Andrew Marley and Braelyn.
Edwards’ funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 11, from 2-4 p.m., at Roland Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Manasota Memorial Park. The Funeral home is located at 1212 53rd Ave E. in Bradenton.
Jason’s mom, Diane, organized the “Honoring Jason Edwards: Memorial Fund” GoFundMe fundraising page that contains the following message: “On behalf of the entire Edwards family, it is with a heavy heart that I share the untimely death of my son, Jason Edwards. Jason was an avid animal lover, collector of crystals and rocks, enjoyed restoring and repurposing furniture and gadgets, grilling in the yard, playing rock-n-roll, especially Stevie Nicks, and never left without giving his famous ‘tootles’ goodbye. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, great-uncle, nephew and cousin. He loved hanging at the beach, always lending a helping hand to friends and family, near and far, and never asked for anything in return. The funds we collect will go towards his memorial service and any other related expenses.”
COMMUNITY MOURNS
News of Edwards’ passing spread quickly on Facebook and many who knew him expressed their condolences and their sense of grief and loss.
Eva Medcroft handles marketing and publicity for BlueWave Restorations and she wrote, “I and everyone here at BlueWave (and probably just about everyone you ever met) will miss you deeply. You were such a kind and gentle soul that lifted the spirits of everyone around you. I feel blessed to have known you.”
Nancy Ileana Granados wrote, “Friend, you served your purpose on earth to your very last breath. You were an Angel walking among us. You helped and blessed many. Your beautiful soul and bright light will definitely be missed. Rest in peace.”
Lora Donley wrote, “The world lost a good one on the last night of ‘24. May we all realize how quickly life can change and adjust our ‘25 priorities.”
Nick Sciortino wrote, “One of the best guys around. A loss that has been felt by many people. He would do anything for anyone without asking for anything in return. Such a tragic loss for his family and friends.”
Doug Goerlitz wrote, “As his clients, we warmed up to him at our first meeting and it only grew from there as we started working together. Such a heartbreaking loss. RIP Jason.”
Jason’s brother, Aaron Edwards, wrote, “Thank you for the kind words about my brother. He was definitely one of a kind and will be truly missed by everyone.”
