Edwin Golden: A True Renaissance Man
Born on December 10, 1937, Edwin Golden was a man whose life seemed to know no bounds. As a child, I thought my grandfather - Daddad - to be infallible, capable of absolutely anything — and in many ways, he was. From an early age, Ed had done pretty much everything. Raised on a ranch by two teachers, Ed was taught to value both hard work and education. After graduating high school (where unsurprisingly he was appointed drum major his senior year), he joined the Air Force where he played in their band-Tops in Blues, traveling across the globe and even performing on the iconic Ed Sullivan Show. The experiences he gained in those years shaped him into the kind of man who could take on any challenge and excel.
Later, Ed’s diverse career path only added to the legend. After leaving the Air Force, he worked in banking and sales, gaining a reputation for his sharp business acumen. As a salesman for John Deere, his commissions were so high that he earned more than the store's owner, a testament to his work ethic, determination and innate charm. His time spent as a repo man that always intrigued me most—his stories, often filled with his characteristic humor, painted a picture of a man who could handle even the most difficult situations with ease. But Ed’s greatest career achievement came later in life when he founded Prestige Hardwood, a company that became a staple in the industry. His business not only flourished, but his team was honored to be a part of the Better Homes and Gardens “Dream Home,” cementing his place as a leader in his field.
Ed had a need for speed. For years, he raced speed boats and always loved sharing memories of those times. Later, when his boat racing days were over, he was infamous for his lead foot. He spent countless hours driving to and from work sites, enjoying back country roads, city highways, jazz music and ridiculous speeds. He truly loved being behind the wheel.
To all who knew him, Ed was a true Renaissance man. He could fix anything, build anything, and what’s more, he could teach anyone anything. So often he was a source of knowledge and guidance on many topics. To us, his family, Ed was not just a father, grandfather, or friend—he was a guiding force, an inspiration, and a constant reminder of the power of hard work and the value of a life well-lived.
Above all his accomplishments, Ed’s greatest pride and joy was his marriage to Johnnie Golden. Together for 39 years, they shared a love that was deep, enduring, and full of laughter. Their wedding song, Time in a Bottle, captured Ed’s heart perfectly—if he could have saved time, he would have chosen to keep every moment with Johnnie. Now, we know that Ed is exactly where he would have wanted to be: spending eternity with the love of his life. Their bond was his greatest gift, and the love they shared will forever be remembered. Together, they built a legacy of love, joy, and unwavering support for each other.
Ed Golden entered into eternal rest on March 21, 2024. He is survived by his daughter Sandra Mann, granddaughter Courtney Knight and grandson-in-law Miles Knight, and great grandchildren: Eamonn, Cullen, Aurelia and Tiernan. He was preceded in death by his parents Oris and Estelle Golden, his sister Barbara Jean Gerry, and his beloved wife, Johnnie Golden. Ed’s family will continue to honor his example of strength, dedication, and passion for life.
He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and we find comfort in knowing that Ed is now reunited with Johnnie for eternity.
His Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 11:30 at the First Methodist Church in Brownwood, Texas. First Methodist Church, 2500 11th Street, Brownwood, TX 76801.