T
ennessee Realtor Martin Edwards Jr. left a lasting legacy of service and advocacy after passing away on January 1. A longtime industry leader, Edwards served as president of the National Association of Realtors in 2002, a pivotal time following the 9/11 attacks. He co-founded the Realtors Relief Fund with three other NAR leaders, which collected over $8.4 million for families affected by the tragedy.

    Edwards was deeply committed to education and service. As chair of the Memphis Health, Education and Housing Facility Board and trustee for the University of Memphis Foundation, he made a significant impact in his community. He also served as president of the Memphis Area Association of Realtors in 1985 and founded its Education Foundation, which now operates out of the Martin Edwards Jr. Education Center.

    Edwards' leadership philosophy, "The Power of One," emphasized that every agent can make a positive difference in the real estate industry and beyond. He put this into practice by advising George W. Bush on housing policy as part of the incoming president's transition team in 2000. According to Ron Phipps, Edwards believed actions spoke louder than words: "It was never about him."