Edward Waters Meeks Jr of Pittsburgh PA died unexpectedly on Sunday, February 7, 2021.
Being the first child born in Philadelphia PA on January 1st, 1951 and the first child and only son of his parents, Edward Waters Meeks, Sr. and Nannie P. Meeks, Ed or “Meekie” as he was lovingly known to family and close friends, thus began his life that came to be characterized by a “straight-talking” independent spirit; a commitment to serving and improving his community, and loyalty to the people and organizations that he loved.
Ed was raised in Philadelphia and Penllyn PA; he was known for his football skills at Wissahickon HS (Ambler) and went on to play football and graduate from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania in Erie with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. He continued his education at the University of Pittsburgh, receiving a Master’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning.
As an associate to many Pittsburgh leaders of the era of business and community development in the 1970’s and beyond, he worked with organizations such as the United Black Front and later the Office of Urban and Community Services of the University of Pittsburgh to shape the urban landscape of the Hill District and Greater Pittsburgh.
His special interest as Co-Founder and Executive Director of Renaissance III was in placing under-represented people in the building trades by developing and providing a successful pre-apprentice training program.
At heart, Ed was truly an entrepreneur who, along with family, owned Meeks I & II, Inc., and the Market Square Beauty Gallerie and Mystique Beauty Salon in Pittsburgh.
At his passing, he was a substitute teacher for the Pittsburgh Public Schools.
In addition, he was a life-long member of the fraternity Omega Psi Phi. Inc.
Ed leaves to cherish his memory a daughter and a granddaughter, Amanda Brown Meeks and Wisdom Sarai Davis in Atlanta GA; and sisters Dr. Karen Meeks (Bluffton, S.C.) and Dr. Valli Meeks (Baltimore, MD). He is also remembered by his beloved fraternity brothers of Omega Psi Phi, Inc., and a host of relatives and friends.
His memorial service is private.
Professional services are entrusted to Ciavarelli Family Funeral Homes, Ambler PA.
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