Carlton “Hub” Edwards, a respected athlete, veteran, and community fixture whose life bridged sports, service, and mentorship on Long Island, died Jan. 17 at 96.

Edwards was a gifted all-around athlete, best known for his pitching. He pitched for the all-Black Setauket Giants and later for the newly integrated Setauket Athletic Club, carving out a reputation as a dependable and accomplished pitcher during an era when opportunities for Black athletes were limited. In 1951, he received an offer from the Brooklyn Dodgers, a moment that hinted at how far his baseball career might go. That same year, however, his life took a different turn when he was drafted into the United States Army.

That commitment to service extended well beyond his military years in the Korean War. Edwards was deeply involved with the American Legion Irving Hart Post 1766, which was founded after World War II to serve Black and Hispanic servicemen. For Edwards, the post was more than a veterans organization; it was a cornerstone of community life, hosting Sunday fish dinners, family celebrations, and a gathering place for veterans to connect and support one another.

Edwards had a 40-year career with the Three Village Central School District. Though officially a custodian, his influence reached far beyond that title. He was also a trusted confidant, informal coach, and steady presence for generations of students.

His impact was felt so strongly that former students carried his lessons with them long after graduation. Legendary professional wrestler and Suffolk County Sports Hall of Fame inductee Mick Foley remembered Edwards in a heartfelt Facebook tribute, recalling him as a constant figure at Ward Melville High School during Foley’s childhood.

“Hub and Willie were far more than employees of the school district; they were role models, friends, and father figures to a generation of Ward Melville students,” Foley wrote, referring also to Willie White, a fellow custodian.

In 2023, Edwards’ lifetime of athletic and community contributions was formally recognized with his induction into the Suffolk County Sports Hall of Fame.

Edwards is survived by his wife, Nellie; sons, Blake and Gregory Edwards; granddaughters, Bri and Aria Edwards; great-grandson, Kingston George; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be held Friday, Jan. 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Bryant Funeral Home.