Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Lord Jesus, as we watch America’s Peace Officers succumb to the wicked and evil in this world, Shot and Killed in the Line-of-Duty, it becomes difficult for us to pick up and move forward. Our communities are on the brink of exploding with tension. In light of the peace officers who are no longer with us, I pray for endurance for our communities and law enforcement agencies. Carry us through this time of strife, that through our struggles, our bonds may grow even more unbreakable. In Your mighty and holy name, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scriptures on Law Enforcement’s Mission:

“For the policeman [peace officer] does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman [peace officer] is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he [the peace officer] will have you punished. He [the peace officer] is sent by God for that very purpose. Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should.” [Romans 13:3-5 TLB]

[Jesus Said,] “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” [John 15:13 ESV]

And he [Jesus] said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:43 ESV]

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, FCPO-USA
Ordained Christian Global Outreach Minister No. 36526
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry

January 10, 2024

Your father was the instructor at a class I took at the Wyoming Police Academy today and mentioned you several times. When I got home, I looked you up, your Dad is VERY proud of you. Rest easy and thanks for watching over us !!

Sgt. Matthew Brilakis
Powell (WY) Police Department

April 4, 2022

Your brother posted your picture. Made me come here to say hi. Thanks for all you did and for your sacrifice. Keep Resting Brother.

Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous
Anonymous

January 13, 2022

Rest in peace Corporal Edwards.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

November 26, 2021

Matthew was a great nephew. He loved his family. While on patrol, he made it a habit to go by his granny’s house to check on her. He was one of her and Gramp’s favorites. His mom and dad loved him and raised him to be a man who loved God, his family, and others. I am thankful that we will see him again one day

Matt’s Aunt Lisa

July 22, 2021

Thank you for your service and today we take the time to remind you and your family that your sacrifice is one that will never, ever be forgotten. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

July 23, 2020

Cpl. Edwards,
On today, the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Taylor. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

July 23, 2020

John 5:28, 29 - "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out". I pray that everyone can find peace in knowing that we will see this officer as well as many others again in Paradise soon. Until then, please accept my condolences.

A.W. Montgomery
Concerned Citizen

October 2, 2018

I had to look your story up after I saw the beautiful loving display of tributes left at the National law Enforcement Memorial wall in DC this past weekend for you. Your bravery and dedicated service will never be forgotten.

Mother G. Birkholz
Officer Craig Birkholz EOW 3/20/2011

May 16, 2018

I fight not for glory or fame, for they are momentary. I fight for those who can't. I fight for Justice. I fight for the oppressed and the down trodden. And if I should lose my life for these just causes, then I have no regrets, For I serve to protect the innocent. It matters not where or when, for evil knows no boundaries. Be it fire, flood, or the threat of tyranny, I will not flee. Justice is my weapon. Faith is my shield. Hope is my armor. Cry not at my passing, for it was my Honor to fight for you. Shed not tears of sorrow, But tears of joy, for now, I stand with God. John f Hooper

Deputy W Nelson
OCCO

January 6, 2015

10 - 42 Thoughts and Prayers to Cpl. Edwards Family and Department . God Bless

Rick
Thin Blue Line of Michigan

September 9, 2014

Thinking if you today as everyday CPL Edwards. RIP

Patrolman John Sheets
Taylor Auxiliary Police Department

July 23, 2014

My faithful servant.
You were called upon to serve others.
You were asked to see, what no man should ever have to see.
To go through, what no man should ever have to go through.
But you did so with pride, honor, and integrity.

My faithful servant.
You were called upon to defend those, who could not defend themselves.
To provide justice to those, who did not respect it.
To lay down your life, if the time called for it.
Again, you did not question what was asked of you.
You did it with love, compassion, and loyalty.

My faithful servant.
In times of adversity, you prayed for strength.
In times of triumph, you praised your Lord.
You served your Country, State, and city proud.
Your service will forever be remembered by the many lives you’ve touched.

My faithful servant.
When your service on this earth is finally complete.
I will welcome you home with open arms.
I will embrace you and proclaim,
“Well done thou good and faithful servant.”


I wrote this when I lost a good friend (Police officer) to a horrible disease (cancer). I think it applies to all law enforcement officers (that’s who I had in mind as I wrote), but it resonates most when we lose one in the line of duty…RIP my brother.

SGT BARTON
GARDEN CITY PD

August 1, 2013

Matt was a great friend who loved his family. I had a great time working with as a camp counselor. Watching him and his wife working with some kids that didn't see love from their own family, Matt and Shanon treated them as if they were his own. Matt I'll see you soon some day brother.

Tim Spangler Corrections officer
friend

July 23, 2013

Rest in Peace brother, your dedication and service are remembered today.

Sergeant Barton
Garden City

June 27, 2013

The man who shot you was sentenced today. I pray there is now some type of closure for your Family & Friends, even though it's still so hard because they miss you so much.

I pray daily that God will continue to give strength & peace to everyone during these difficult times.

resident

November 28, 2011

REST IN PEACE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.

OFFICER JAMES ''SPEEDY'' HARKINS
HIAWASSEE POLICE DEPT. GEORGIA

November 28, 2011

Matt,
This past Saturday morning, the rain stopped in time, the birds were singing, and, just like the ones that were buzzing around us during your Funeral, a Dragonfly was seen flying amongst those in attendance for your Memorial Service. It was a beautiful ceremony, and I am thankful to have been able to be there to honor your memory. Watch over us all......as we move forward with you, and your family in our hearts.

God Bless Matt......

PUBLIC SERVICE OFFICER #957
TAYLOR PD, MICHIGAN

July 28, 2011

Matt,
This past Saturday morning, the rain stopped in time, the birds were singing, and, just like the ones that were buzzing around us during your Funeral, a Dragonfly was seen flying amongst those in attendance for your Memorial Service. It was a beautiful ceremony, and I am thankful to have been able to be there to honor your memory. Watch over us all......as we move forward with you, and your family in our hearts.

God Bless Matt......

PUBLIC SERVICE OFFICER
TAYLOR PD, MICHIGAN

July 28, 2011

Cpl. Edwards,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Taylor. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
USBP

March 8, 2011

My deepest sympathies are with the Taylor Police Department and the family of Cpl. Edwards. May he rest in peace.

Auxiliary Sergeant TJ Cieciura
Ontario Provincial Police

September 10, 2010

Cpl Edwards, I will never forget the seeing the press conference that day...It was so sad and I could hear the utter pain in the speaking officers voice. You will truly be missed. So many dont get it, they treat cops like crap yet every day, officers around the world go out and put their lives on the line for the same people who trash talk them. I have wanted to be a LEO since I was, gosh 7 or 8 and I am just now realizing my dream as I get ready to graduate with my criminal justice degree and begin work for a police department...Does your story scare me...? Yes, it certainly does! One never knows which call could be there last. As a "civillian" who did a few "ride a longs" with the TPD (and several other depts), I remember a few scary situations that I encountered out there but that never changed how I felt...I want to be out there, I know that when I do go to work, I will run the risk like you did of walking out the door, kissing my kids goodbye and have that be the last time I kiss my kids...scary thought but, that is what you did, that is what 1000's of officers do every day, kiss their kids not knowing if that will be the last time...and for you it was. But, even knowing that, I still want to pursue my dream of being a LEO and I will and I hope your light and the light of all the fallen officers before you guide all of the "brothers in blue" both present....and future,.... Your wife and your children have my deepest sympathy and condolences Cpl Edwards, I met you a couple of times in passing when I did my rides with the TPD and although I did not "know" you, you seemed like a very nice guy! May you rest in peace forever!!!

Anonymous

September 3, 2010

When the bad guys kill a cop, this is the way that they say to the citizens, "I own you. You don't call 911. I kill your cops, I kill your 911 calls. I run the streets. You people, and your cops are not running this show. I am." Every citizen should be outraged and enraged when a cop is killed. When a citizen calls 911, they know, even if they never speak a word into the phone, that a police officer is coming to find out what is going on. When these murderers kill the cop that you called, they are telling you that you are powereless, that you should be SCARED and that there is nothing you can do. A cop killer is the guy who is telling you that you need to be afraid. They are not afraid of the police. Edwards had to respect this man's rights, he could not pat him down right off the bat til he felt that the man was more of a focus, more of a danger. This dude used his civil rights to take the opportunity to pull that gun out and shoot Edwards in the head. No warning, no calling out. Coward! He knew he was gOing back to jail for even being in possession of that gun, as a parolee. Edwards stood in his way. People, when you call 911, a man or a woman cop is coming to see what is the trouble. They don't know you, but that cop will die for you. Think about it! Appreciate, people. The American police officer does not know who the enemy is when they come into a situation. The bad guys don't wear labels on their shirts, "I'm a criminal that needs locking up" but the cops wear a label on their shirt, and they wear their oath, their shield, over their heart. It aint about white or black, folks, when you call 911 do you care what color shows up to help you?

sorrowful

August 25, 2010

I still can't beleive this has happened. You always were there to back me. I tried to do the same. I will miss all the sarcastic comments, you made it fun bro! I know I will always have a petner watching over me.

Anonymous

August 21, 2010

As a lifelong City Of Taylor resident our family was saddened by the Passing of Cpl.Matthew Edwards.We pray for all of the Edawrds Family,the Taylor Police Department and all First Responders across our Great Country.It is because of a Hero's Giving His Life that we have the freedoms we enjoy in in the United States Of America.

Rest in Peace Officer Edwards!We will all meet again in the Glory Of Our Lord God and Saviour.

The Mullins Family

Martin D. Mullins
Taylor Resident

August 12, 2010