Edmund "Ed" Kenneth Boyce

With heavy hearts, we celebrate the life of Edmund “Ed” Kenneth Boyce, a loving husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend. Born on September 16, 1948, in Bayshore, New York, Ed passed away peacefully on May 11, 2025, at the age of 76 at Coastal Carolina Hospital in Okatie, South Carolina.

Ed proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force (1967–1975) and U.S. Navy (1975–1992), retiring with honor as a Chief Petty Officer for Aviation Warfare. His military career took him around the globe, but his heart was always grounded in love for family, community, and country.

He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 27 years, Shirley Grant Boyce.  Ed came to his marriage with Shirley having three grown  daughters Jody L. Boyce, Cynthia A. Boyce, and Amy Maxwell; siblings Arthur Boyce (Louis), Wayne Boyce (Peggy), and Linda Boyce Avitabile. He gained Sister and brother in laws, Judy Savage Jones, Paul Jones, Billy and Martha Grant; seven nieces and nephews (some affectionately calling him “Uncle Head”); four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Eileen Bernhardsen Boyce, and stepfather, Melvin Boyce.

After retiring to Sun City from Hampton, VA in 2018, Ed became a vibrant part of his community. He was a founding member of the Virginia/Maryland/DC Group, a faithful member  and volunteer of Church of the Palms, and a dedicated volunteer at Bluffton Self Help every Wednesday.

Ed loved playing golf, competing in bowling, and spending time with his dog Shadow, often seen riding together in their golf cart or visiting the dog park. Though pasta was his favorite dish, he had to enjoy it sparingly; a tender pot roast often took its place.

He cherished traveling with Shirley—especially their journeys to Ireland, France, the Caribbean, and Alaska, often by cruise.

• A Celebration of Life will take place on June 9th at 12 noon  to honor Ed’s memory and legacy at the Church of the Palms on Rt 170 in Okatie, SC
• A special thanks to Dr Loader at Coastal Carolina Hospital, the nursing staff and Compassus Hospice Care  who provided such loving care to him and Shirley. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Bluffton Self Help, continuing his spirit of service to others or Church of the Palms in Okatie, SC.