The community of Louisiana bayou is mourning the loss of Junior Edwards, who was a beloved cast member of the History Channel’s Swamp People. Junior Edwards, who passed away at the age of 61, was known for his authentic representation of Cajun life and for his alligator hunting skills. The tragic news was shared by his grandson “Lil” Willie Edwards through a touching Facebook post in which he reminisced about his “pawpaw” and his adventurous spirit.

Edwards was a cast member on Swamp People from 2010 to 2015 and returned in 2021. As a fan favorite and the swamp’s no-nonsense Cajun alligator hunter, he was deeply respected for his knowledge of the bayous and the dedication to the region’s heritage. His hunting-enthusiast son Willie along with grandson Lil’ Willie shared numerous heartwarming and memorable family moments that captivated the audience.

His co-stars Ashley “Deadeye” Jones and Ronnie Adams shared their tributes and grief, recalling him as a “legend” and “one of the greatest alligator hunters” Edwards. Although the family has kept the details private, the cause of death, Edwards’ grandson had noted a couple months earlier in July, that he had been “dealing with some health issues.” Junior Edwards has truly earned a legacy as an American outdoorsman, and as an iconic symbol which the people of the bayou region proudly claim, depicting the grit and heritage of the Louisiana bayou culture.

Read More: “Predator: Badlands” Revealed: A Sci-Fi Prequel Deepening the Franchise at SDCC