Edna Moore May passed peacefully on Sunday, October 23, 2022. May 21, 1933, in Philadelphia Pa, the City and State in which she was born. Edna's maiden name is Edna Mae Moore, the daughter of Harry C. Moore and Bernetta Moore. She was the youngest of three Moore children, affectionately known as "Boo" or "Bunni", Edna was a sharp intellect, early and voracious reader with a quick wit, giant heart, compassionate spirit, and kind discipline. Edna attended Overbrook High School, graduating with honors and completed a grueling nursing program, attending nursing school in New York City, West Chester University, Community College of Philadelphia, St. Joseph's and Arcadia culminating in a master's in nursing, achieving the distinctive designation of Summa Cum Laude. In July of 1965 Edna married the love of her life Ernest Bruce May. After completing training at Mercy-Douglas Hospital School of Nursing, Edna continued her career in nursing, working as a surgical nurse at the University of Pennsylvania and then transitioning to the Philadelphia School District, where she oversaw multiple clusters of schools. Throughout her career Edna displayed a tenacity, empathy, discipline, and steadfast work ethic which assured the highest level of care for her school children and served as an example for all with whom she came in contact. Edna was an insatiable reader and student of history, eagerly entering into debate with all who dared. Edna was and will remain the center piece of a loving family; always quick to share a deer memory, practical joke, or loving tease at all family gatherings and parties. She made the most of all holidays and made even the smallest events special. Edna, from an early age, exhibited a talent in music, mastering the piano and organ, playing for various church groups. Edna never lost the ability to play anything phonetically. Edna's appreciation for the nuances of music, and its arrangement was spiritual and remains an eternal gift to all who were privileged enough to listen in her presence.
Edna was a member of a Gourmet Club, "the Main Course", whose members included: Dianne McCloud, Carolene Wood and Geraldine Myles. These women represented many of Edna's closest friends of more than 30 years. In particular, Edna was closest with Dr. Myles, a dear friend of over 60 years and was Godmother to her daughter, Julia Ann Myles. The Gourmet Club brought Edna immense joy, preparing gourmet meals sourced from popular cookbooks and magazines for family and friends. Holiday celebrations were made into memorable events because of the love and variety of dishes served. Edna was also a valued member a book club and her fascinating analysis always provided stimulating discussions among members. From the union of Ernest and Edna came their adoring son's, Ernest A. May Jr, and Jeremy B. May. Ernest Jr's marriage to Ruth Yaskin blessed the family with Edna's most cherished granddaughter Laine Raynene May. Edna enjoyed travel and was fortunate to visit England, France and Egypt, basking in the cultural richness and history of those locals. Edna relished and encouraged the opportunity to learn and explored writing, attending multiple writing workshops and retreats later in life. Edna's favorite pastime was spending time with family and friends. From trips to Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, New York and the Jersey shore, Edna loved the banter, exchange of ideas and sharing of memories. Her invaluable impact on those who shared moments with her bridges generations. A wonderful and dutiful, wife, mother, sister, matriarch, friend, confidant and advisor, Edna will be greatly missed. The family wishes to thank you for your love, kindness, and support as we remember and celebrate a life well lived and well loved!

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing On Thursday, November 3, 2022 from 10:00 AM and to her funeral service at 11:00 AM at Kirk & Nice Funeral Home. The family will receive friends after the service at Ernest and Edna's home at 911 Plainfield Rd., Philadelphia, PA 19150. Burial will be on Friday, November 4, 2022 at 1 PM at Rolling Green Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to Methodist Services, 4300 Monument Road, Philadelphia, PA 19131, Attn: Carole Boughter, Development would be appreciated. In your memo, please note "In honor of Edna M. May."