Edward Bessler Abel, Jr., 89, of Brunswick, Georgia, passed away on December 9, 2024. He was born on October 6, 1935, to the late Edward and Emmalou Abel.

A lifelong resident of Brunswick, Edward graduated from Glynn Academy in 1953 and went on to enlist in the US Navy, where he served 27 years as a bomb disposal technician and diver. In 1967, he completed his Associate of Arts degree through the Navy's Associate Degree Completion Program at the Pensacola Junior College before going on to complete his Bachelor's degree in Adult Education, as well as receiving his commercial pilot's license with a multi-engine rating.

After his retirement from the Navy, Edward worked at FLETC as a training coordinator before transferring to Kings Bay Naval Base, where he worked as an instructor in safety, security, and emergency procedures.

In April 1990, he assumed duties as the Glynn County Emergency Management Director and served in this position for 11 years until its abolishment in 2001.

In 1993, he was chosen as one of eight Emergency Management Directors from across the country to be recognized by FEMA as an Outstanding Graduate of FEMA professional courses and the integration of that material into local programs.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Edward B. Abel, Sr., and Emmalou Symons; his brother, John S. Abel.

He is survived by his spouse, Saundra Yvonne Abel; his children, Edward Abel III (Grace), Nancy Holder, Lynn Eiland (Steve); Jeffrey "Kevin" Smith; Kimberly Young (Lorin); siblings, Laura Lee Sparks (Jack) and William "Bill" Abel (Faith); his sister-in-law, Judy; 13 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.

A private inurnment will occur at a later date.

Brunswick Memorial Park Funeral Home is honored to have assisted the Abel family.