Edwin J. Wise Sr., 82, of Laurel, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Ed was born March 15, 1944, in Cincinnati, Ohio, son of the late Robert and Beulah Wise. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army in the 82nd Airborne.

Ed retired from Sussex County government (HVAC) in 2006 with 22 years of service. Ed then went to work at Sports at the Beach, maintaining the equipment until 2020. He also previously worked for Peninsula Oil and for Nutter Marvel.

He had a heart for the fire service and served his community for over 55 years, where he was a life member and held various positions, including fire police, chief engineer and president. Ed was also a member of American Legion Post 19 for 41 years.

In his spare time, besides camping, he would “piddle” in his shop. Ed had a true “Mr. Fix-It” talent. It was often said, “If Poppop can’t fix it, you might as well throw it away.” Ed had a sincere heart for helping others and enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Susan (Taylor) Wise; his son, Edwin Wise Jr. (Shelly); stepchildren, Michael Hembree, Timmy Hembree, Mary Emory, Brenda Brasure, Shari Collins (Wesley) and Shane Smart (Megan); grandchildren, Jack Wise (Brooke), Ashley Ward (Tom), Billy Shockley III, Seth Shockley, Danielle Chupp, Kelly Emory, Amanda Brasure (Greg), Trevor Collins (Natalie), Caden Collins (Hannah), Bristol Lambden and Colin Munoz; four great-granddaughters, Sophia, Jessie and Oaklyn Ayers, and Sadie Collins; brother, Jerry Wise (Edna); sisters, Kay Taylor and Sheila Edwards; brother-in-law, Pete Denherder; sister-in-law, Virginia Jenkins; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by his brothers, Robert Wise (1), George Rogers, Robert Wise (2), James Wise and Pat Wise, and sisters, Esther Bonkowski, Marie Barnes, Martha Sinks and Linda Denherder.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Georgetown Volunteer Fire Company, P.O. Box 77, Georgetown, DE 19947.

Services are in the care of Short Funeral Services in Georgetown.

Online condolences may be shared at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.