Edwin C. Young Jr.

On May 15, 2026, after 100 years, 4 months, and 24 days, Edwin C. Young, Jr. — beloved veteran, musician, and the devoted uncle and brother-in-law at the center of our large and loving family — was reunited with his wife, Molly, in heaven. He passed peacefully at The Inn at CoalRidge in Wadsworth, Ohio.

Born in Akron, Ohio, and a lifelong resident of Akron and Barberton, Uncle Ed was a faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church. He proudly served our country in World War II as a member of the United States Army, stationed in Germany. A few years ago, he was among 36 veterans chosen for the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he was selected to present the wreath laid on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

After his discharge from the Army, Uncle Ed began what would become a 40-year career at Babcock & Wilcox in Barberton, retiring in 1988. During those years, he also met and married the love of his life, Molly C. Young, in 1962. Together they shared 61 wonderful years until her passing in 2023.

Uncle Ed loved music, especially polka music. A saxophonist and clarinetist, he played in several bands, including the Jolly Jets — a polka band featuring his brothers-in-law Joe, Johnny, and Tony. Family get-togethers and holidays always included a jam session in the basement.

Uncle Ed and Aunt Molly treasured their time at their property in Panama City Beach, Florida — land originally prospected by Uncle Ed’s father in the 1960s, which Uncle Ed and Aunt Molly purchased and made their own. There, they enjoyed fishing, relaxing, and eating oysters and grouper. They loved sharing PCB with their family, and many were fortunate to spend time with them there.

Uncle Ed never missed a game. From his nieces’ and nephews’ sporting events, to Ohio State football, to the Cleveland Browns, Cavs, and Guardians, he watched them all — and never missed an opportunity to critique the CLE teams.

A quiet and loyal man, Uncle Ed led with steadiness rather than volume. He was dedicated to his family, always there to lend a hand, and the kind of person you could count on without ever having to ask.

After a brief illness, Uncle Ed spent the last 13 months of his life at The Inn at CoalRidge in Wadsworth, where he made many friends and enjoyed the activities — especially bingo and the weekly Friday happy hours. When he wasn’t busy socializing, he listened to his collection of records. We are forever grateful to Debbie and the wonderful staff at CoalRidge, who loved and cared for him as one of their own.

Uncle Ed is now at peace with Aunt Molly, his parents Edwin Sr. and Wilma, and his brothers and sisters-in-law as well as his nephew, Mike Gay. He will be deeply missed by his nieces and nephews: Bob (Debbie) Hite, Diane (Jerry) Adams, Rick (Peggy) Hite, Sandi Gay, Susan (Shaun) Police, and AJ (Amy) Hite, as well as his many great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and great-great-nephews.

Ed's Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Silva-Hostetler Funeral Home, 1199 Wooster Road West, Barberton, Ohio. Calling hours will be held One Hour Prior to the service. Burial to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers (www.t2t.org) in Uncle Ed’s honor.