THE HKELS
The Roots of Our Family
The National HKEL (Halliburton Kinney Edwards Lowe) Family Association traces its roots back to the 1700s in Lauderdale County, Tennessee, where the foundation of our family legacy first began. What started as shared ancestry grew into a strong, multigenerational community committed to preserving our history, honoring our ancestors, and strengthening family bonds.
The formal organization of the HKEL family began in 1961 with the founding of the Greater Cleveland chapter, created to bring family members together in fellowship and celebration. Since then, reunions, programs, and shared traditions have continued to unite generations across the country, ensuring that our stories, values, and legacy live on for the future.
John E. Edwards (1857-1935) and Celia Graves Edwards (1862-1925)
John E. Edwards and Celia Graves Edwards were blessed to have twelve children.
Mary Edwards Koonce
Corean Edwards Kinney
Willie Edwards Isom
Goldie Edwards Souse
Annie Edwards Lowe
Julius Edwards
John M. Edwards
Monroe Edwards
Pleasant Edwards
Tucker E. Edwards
Sam Edwards
Charlie Edwards
Celebrating the Legacy of Our Founders
The formal organization of the HKEL family began in 1961 with the founding of the Greater Cleveland chapter, created to bring family members together in fellowship and celebration. Since then, reunions, programs, and shared traditions have continued to unite generations across the country, ensuring that our stories, values, and legacy live on for the future.
The Executive Board Members Who Guide Us
Through their vision and dedication, our founders created a strong foundation of love, tradition, and togetherness that continues to shape and inspire our family for generations to come.
Menu
Former HKEL Executive Board Members
Menu
In Memoriam - HKEL Executive Board and Founders
We remember with gratitude
the hearts who dreamed before us,
the hands that built with faith,
and the voices that called our family together.
We honor the Founders—
keepers of history,
guardians of our name,
pillars who stood so we might stand stronger.
Clifton Kinney
Jessie Mae Saunders Kinney
Roy Kinney
Leara Kinney Robinson
Eara Kinney Rufus
We honor the Executive Board Members—
servants who led with wisdom,
laboring in love,
carrying the torch with dignity and grace.
Charles “Chuck” Hall
Fannie Kinney
Odell Kinney
Ladie Bea Mitchell
Bernice Rufus Owens
Reverend Kay Rufus
Eddie “Godfather” Robinson
Though their earthly work is finished,
their light remains—
guiding us, steadying us,
reminding us that family is a sacred gift.
May their memory be a blessing,
their legacy a charge,
and their spirit a quiet whisper
calling us to unity, purpose, and love.
Reach out and Connect with the HKEL Family
We’d love to hear from you — whether you have questions, want to get involved, or simply want to learn more. Family is not only an important thing; family is everything.















