Edward Thomas Washington Born 11/23/54 in Prescott, AZ to Gladys Louise Moore & Ollie Washington. Edward Thomas Washington moved throughout the country, making stops in Texas, California & Colorado before settling in western Missouri. Graduating from El Dorado Springs HS in 1972 he continued on to obtain his Bachelor's degree in Education from the University of Missouri. Focusing on education, he began his career in education teaching mathematics at St. Rita's Catholic Church in St. Louis, Mo.' On 6/19/1982 he wed his wife and college sweetheart, Cheryl. In 1986 he received an offer from Rockwood School District to teach at Chesterfield Elementary school. Eager to start the next chapter of his life, he accepted the offer, an opportunity to become closer to his father-in-law (who had worked for the Rockwood School district for over 15 years at the time). After continuing to dedicate his life to education, Ed and Cheryl welcomed their first child, a son, Scott Thomas, into the world. Born 6/19/1988. In the summer of 1993 Ed accepted a role to teach 6th grade world history at Rockwood South Middle School (RSMS). 6 months later, he and Cheryl welcomed their beautiful daughter, Caitlyn Michelle into the world. Born 1/3/1994. In 1998 he began teaching 8th grade American History, in Room 300, where he taught for 18 years. In August, a cancerous mass was discovered in his abdomen, little did we know how aggressive and destructive it would be. After a 2-month battle, Ed lost his fight with Cancer. He fought hard, only hoping to have the ability to educate again. He leaves behind not only a legacy but a trail of minds enlightened by his ability to teach. We, as a family, beg that his passing not be a topic of mourning, rather a topic of inspiration. A topic of inspiration to live everyday like your last and to fight as if you'll never see another, for you have no idea what tomorrow holds. If history has taught us anything it is to learn from our past. Ed cared deeply about the success of his students and still does. In his most intimate moments with me, he expressed his condolences due to his inability to be there for his students. So for my father, a friend, educator, mentor and so much more, please continue to learn, as education is power. "I am not a teacher but an awakener." – Robert Frost RIP Edward T. Washington 1954-2016