Absent from the body and in the presence of the Lord, Stacy L. Edkin, 58, of Jersey Shore, is in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

Stacy grew up in McElhattan, the son of Mahlon G. and Charlene L. Edkin. He died Thursday, May 5, 2016, at his home.

Stacy was lovingly referred to as Stace, Love, Dad, Woody and Chief, but was most proud of being called Gramps and Grampsy.

After attending numerous elementary and middle schools, he graduated from Lock Haven High School in 1976.

His passions, since early in life, were music and carpentry. From drum major in high school, a member of the school choir and different bands to accomplishments as a high tenor and pianist, even giving a solo concert in New York City.

After graduating high school, Stacy became owner of Edkin Construction for 30 years, serving clients from north to south and east to west, even as far as Minnesota. Swinging a hammer became his life, as he would say. His attention to detail and perfection over the years turned him into a most particular and honest craftsman. Having a home or addition built by Stacy Edkin became something to be proud of.

After turning his life over to Jesus in 1986, Stacy became a member of a southern gospel quartet named "Higher Ground," and they performed at churches and events too numerous to mention. It was then that he discovered his true calling in life, spreading the gospel and love of his Savior through song.

As a husband and father ... Oh, what can we say ... He was and always will be the best of the best.

Loving, tender (at times strict), gentle and patient (especially with the grandchildren), generous and compassionate. But most of all, if Stacy comes to your mind, he would want you to remember him as a strong and faithful servant to the end.

Stacy is survived by his wife of 38 years, Iris; a daughter, Shannon (Kent) Terry; two sons, James (Jacqueline) Edkin and Joseph (Kelly) Edkin; and 10 of his greatest blessings, his grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Lisa (Howard) Brown, whom he affectionately referred to as Honey.

As we miss his daily presence, his warm smiles and embrace, his quirky jokes and the early morning sounds of his workshop, we rejoice that he is singing in the heavenly choir and tickling the ivories with his "heroes" Roger and Anthony, surrounded by his Savior and loved ones that have been waiting. No more pain, no more sickness, no more agony.

This is not the end. We relish the day that we will be together again, at the sound of the trumpet, in the blink of an eye ... or sooner.

Family and friends will be celebrating Stacy's life at Grace Fellowship Church in Avis, where he was a member. A graveside service at Sunnyside Cemetery, Mill Hall, and a fellowship meal at the church will follow. His close friend and pastor, Grant Helsel, will officiate.