Edwin Artest, Jr.

Mr. Edwin G. “Brother” Artest, Jr. passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2020.  A Graveside service will be conducted Saturday, July 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Rest Haven Memorial Park, 4615 E. Hanna Avenue with Pastor Donald Lott, officiating.  Interment will follow.

Edwin G. Artest Jr., was born the only son, and second child, of the late Edwin G. Artest Sr and the late Jessie M. Artest. He was the brother of the late Saralee Edwina Artest, the uncle of the late Russell Minor Cato III, as well as the uncle-in-law to the late Dawn Cato. 

A native of Tampa, Mr. Artest or, affectionately known as “Brother” or “Uncle Bro” was educated in the public schools of Hillsborough County and was a graduate of Middleton High School.  He continued his education and earned his Bachelor’s degree at Morehouse College and Master’s degree at Howard University. As an avid continuous learner, he educated himself in various fields, taking courses in Radio Services as well as obtaining his pilot’s license, gaining the ability to fly a private plane. 

His affiliations include: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated, ABA Tampa Bridge Club, and formerly of the ACBL North Tampa Bridge Club. “Brother” was employed as a Microbiologist for Menon Foundation Laboratory and NASA Space Center. Later in life, he was the president of the Artest Mortgage & Invest Company. 

He leaves to cherish the memories of his life: grand-nephew, Tyrus R. Cato and wife Kimberly; grandnieces, B’Neika Cato McCleary and husband LaVander, Amale Cato, Amira Cato, and Cydney Dodson; niece-in-law, Saida Kouya; 3 great great grandnephews; 4 great great grandnieces; Artest and Larry family members, numerous cousins, and great cousins.

The Visitation will be held Thursday, July 16 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Ray Williams Funeral Home, 301 N. Howard Avenue.  We are asking family and friends to follow the CDC guidelines.

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