Derrill Edwards, 53, an Evanston man who devoted himself to helping people with HIV after he contracted the disease himself, died Sunday, Feb. 27, in Evanston Hospital after suffering a heart attack. Ill and often homebound for the last several years, Mr. Edwards nonetheless was an outspoken advocate for improving the quality of life of those infected with the AIDS virus, educating federal lawmakers, speaking out at community meetings and counseling others with the disease, said Deborah Steinkopf, former director of Better Existence with HIV, an Evanston social services organization. A religious man and native of the South Carolina Bible Belt, Mr. Edwards moved to the Chicago area in 1979, where he worked as a property manager, raised birds and collected antiques. First becoming knowledgeable about new AIDS medications in an effort to improve his own chances for survival, he quickly became passionate about other issues facing those with AIDS, chiefly affordable housing and federal funding for support agencies. He lobbied for both in Washington and spoke often at local schools. Mr. Edwards is survived by his brother, Donald; and his stepmother, Helen. A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. Monday in the First United Methodist Church, 1630 Hinman Ave., Evanston.
