Pictured from left are family and friends of Seth Edwards. They include cousins Colt Faga, Jensen Faga, Falina Kenney, Justine Lasecki (friend), Aunt Jackie Williams, Cousin Kylie Peck, Mom Dawn Edwards, Grandmother Kathy Williams, Aunt Jill Work and Jeff Gray.

A fellow walker shared his tattoo. This 800 number is the same as the 988 Lifeline which is available via text 24/7/365. All conversations are free and confidential.

Born Nov. 19, 1998, he was the beloved son of David and Dawn Edwards and older brother to Trent Edwards. He was born in Jamestown, and spent his early years in Warren, where the family lived from 1998 to 2005 before relocating. He attended Market Street Elementary and lived in Pleasant Township during that time.

Over the years, Edwards and his family lived in different parts of the state but at age 18, his parents returned to the Northwestern Pennsylvania area, while Seth Edwards moved to Wilmington, N.C., to be near his older brothers, Ryan Edwards and Daryn Troiano.

He had a passion for disc golf, loved spending time at the beach, and enjoyed attending concerts.

“We don’t always see the silent struggles carried by those we love,” Dawn Edwards said. “Seth kept much of his pain to himself. Though his absence leaves a deep void, his memory continues to inspire love, compassion, and remembrance. We will always miss him — and we will never forget him.”

Around 30 participants marched in support of preventing it and remembering those who are no longer here Friday. The group walked around and into the downtown area, carrying signs, pictures and glow sticks.

Edwards’ mom explained how her son was hurting and with all the events that have happened over the last several years, the COVID shutdown and political upheaval that tore families apart depending on politics.

“The walk was a start and an attempt to bring awareness to suicide and suicide prevention. This is not something that I was involved in until it came into my life so I wonder how we can encourage those who haven’t been touched by it, become more aware so they notice red flags in their own relationships. I do see that the Lord is leading me on this path, one that many others are on as well, and I pray that I can have an impact in some way if it be His will.”

Just a short year ago, on Sept. 6, 2024, Seth Edwards may have left this world but what he left behind is his vibrant spirit and a quiet strength.

The family all wore shirts with Seth’s tattoo on the sleeve with wings on it and with a message meant to start a conversation, or just offer hope, to random strangers. “You are enough” on the front and on the back, “Dear person behind me, The world is a better place with you in it. Love, the person in front of you.”

Be Well Programs at the YMCA of Warren County are in place to help support the community in a variety of ways. Monthly meetings are held to connect groups and organizations to network on the Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. They are typically held at the Warren YMCA.

One of those Be Well Programs includes the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Warren County, a team of people who work together to prevent suicide and provide support to anyone impacted by a loss. Providing educational and awareness information, there are also meetings monthly on the third Wednesday of the month, from 1 to 2 p.m., in person at Warren YMCA and also virtually via Teams.

Community members are invited to attend, and can contact the YMCA Mental Wellness Coordinator at 814-726-0110 to find out specific locations each month.

Suicide Prevention/Intervention/Postvention Resources are located at https://warrenymca.org/suicide-prevention