On Monday, March 10, The Heritage Foundation hosted a “Tribute to Dr. Lee Edwards” to honor the late historian and founder of the conservative movement who passed away on
December 12, 2024, at the age of 92.
Beginning with a Solemn Mass at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, the event moved into a reception followed by a time of reflection on his life and work. Dr. Kevin Roberts, President of The Heritage Foundation kicked off the event with kind words about a kind man declaring he had a “zeal for the truth” and was an important part of the Heritage culture. Dr. Edwards served as a Distinguished Fellow in Conservative Thought, B. Kenneth Simon Center for American Studies at Heritage and a leading historian of American conservatism and the author or editor of 25 books.
The event also featured others who were impacted by the life and work of Edwards including Matthew Continetti, Dr. Paul Kengor, Ambassador Paula Dobriansky, Dr. Eric Patterson, Roger Ream, Ambassador Audra Plepyte, Randy Teague, Richard Viguerie and Brigette Wagner speaking on behalf of Ed Feulner who all paid tribute to their friend and colleague.
“At his death, Lee was busy writing his 26th book ‘Ten Unsung Heroes of the Conservative Movement’,” said Richard Viguerie. “Lee’s list did not include himself, but on my short list of conservative unsung heroes would be Dr. Lee Edwards.”
The event concluded with remarks by Dr. Elizabeth Spalding, one of Edwards’ two daughters, who explained the importance of his Catholic faith in his life and in his death. She said she can imagine the conversations being had in heaven with those who have gone on before and the reunion with his wife Anne who “helped make Lee Edwards the man that he was.”
