Edward Arthur Villani

The Life and Legacy of Edward Arthur Villani Jr.

Edward Arthur Villani Jr. peacefully departed this life on February 12, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Edward's life was defined by steadfast love, deep faith, and quiet strength.

Edward was born on July 1, 1948, in the Bronx, New York, to Edward and Cecelia Villani, who preceded him in death. He was the second of six children and grew up in a loving home alongside his siblings: Dorothy, Margaret, Diane, Paul, and Frank. Affectionately known as "Eddie," he was regarded as reliable, thoughtful, and wise. His family often sought his guidance and valued his steady presence. The principles instilled in him early in life-faith, hard work, and devotion to family-shaped the man he became.

Edward attended school in the South Bronx, part of the New York City Public School System and graduated from Aviation High School. He continued his education at Bronx Community College, earning an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He later received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology and a master's in Statistics from Rochester Institute of Technology.

While attending Bronx Community College, Edward met the love of his life, Juanita McGee. They were married on December 27, 1969, at the Church of the Crucifixion in New York City. Their marriage spanned 57 beautiful years and was blessed with three children: Elonda Michelle, Yvonne Renee', and LeRon Alexander.

During a visit to Arizona, Edward and Juanita were taught the Gospel from close friends, Max and Lorri Harris. Upon returning to Rochester, they began studying the bible with people at the Southside Church of Christ. They were baptized into Christ in 1981 and became members at Southside. As their faith deepened, they became active and dedicated workers in the church.

Edward was a devoted father who raised his children in a loving Christian home. He supported them in their spiritual, academic, and extracurricular pursuits. Though gentle and kind, he was firm when needed. His children grew up knowing they could always depend on his love, wisdom, and unwavering support-values they continue to cherish.

Professionally, Edward built a distinguished career in engineering. He began in New York, working at Electrical Testing Laboratories and later at Grumman Aerospace Corporation, contributing to the lunar space modules. He eventually moved his family to Southfield, Michigan, to work for General Motors. There, he and Juanita became faithful members of the Oakland Church of Christ. Edward served as a Deacon and Associate Financial Advisor and helped develop impactful youth programs, including Youth Worship, which continues to bless the congregation today.

Later, Edward advanced his career and relocated his family to Georgia. There he worked for Cadillac Products, where he served with dedication for 22 years before retiring in April of 2025. They also became members of Macland Road Church of Christ, where he continued serving faithfully, providing technical and audiovisual support and mentoring others in the congregation.

Eddie was a gentle, soft-spoken man who mentored many with patience and wisdom. Though highly intelligent, he was humble and never boastful. He had a delightful sense of humor and loved making others laugh. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, vacationing, working with computers, listening to "Oldies but Goodies," and watching movies on his big-screen television.

Edward leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Juanita Villani; his children Elonda (Dwight) Alleyne, Yvonne (John) Johnson, and LeRon (Dominique) Villani; his grandchildren Troy, Lennox, Tramane, Tatiana, Bethany, Leela, Andrew, Jhaneé, and John III; and his siblings Dorothy Kaalund, Margie Boone, Diane Lynch, Paul Villani, and Frank Villani.

Eddie lived a full and faithful life. He was deeply loved, and he will be deeply missed.

Well done, good and faithful servant. Enjoy your well-deserved rest.