Junior Edwards was a tv personality and veteran alligator hunter from Pierre Part, Louisiana, best known as one of the most experienced and longest‑serving cast members on the History Channel’s reality series Swamp People. Junior Edwards passed away on July 25 2025 at the age of 67.
With nearly 100 episodes under his belt, he became a fan-favorite for his rugged skills, dedication, and father‑son dynamic with his son Willie (“Little Willie”) Edwards.
| Full Name | William “Junior” Edwards |
|---|---|
| Known As | Junior Edwards |
| Birthplace | Pierre Part, Louisiana, USA |
| Born | 1958 |
| Profession | Alligator Hunter, Fisherman, TV Personality |
| Death | July 2025 |
| Famous For | Appearing on History Channel’s “Swamp People” |
| TV Show Seasons | Season 1–6, returned in Season 12 |
| Spouse | Theresa Edwards |
| Children | Willie Edwards, Randy Edwards (deceased) |
| Net Worth | Approximately $500,000 (as of 2023) |
| Residence | Pierre Part, Louisiana |
Early Life & Background
Junior grew up deep in the Bayou, immersed in swamp skills passed down from his father and grandfather. He began hunting and fishing at a young age, mastering both and leaving formal schooling early to pursue those trades.
Career Highlights
Alligator Hunting
As a seasoned hunter, Junior specialized in rifle hunting and trap-setting, sometimes spent up to 18 hours setting traps with optimal bait and angle techniques. He hunted alongside his son Willie, taught him how to craft treble hooks and navigate the swamp’s dangers. Their often tense but loyal relationship became a hallmark of their on-screen chemistry.
Reality TV: Swamp People
Junior debuted on Swamp People in Season 1 and remained through Season 6, rising as the show’s second longest-serving cast member. After a hiatus from Seasons 7–11, he reappeared in Season 12. His departure was rumored to be due to contract or budget disputes, which he denied on social media, while expressing gratitude to supporters.
Fishing & Business Ventures
When hunting season ends, Junior shifts to hoop‑net fishing hauling thousands of pounds of fish daily with his wife Theresa and son Willie. The family also offers guided swamp hunting experiences via their website and social media presence.
Personal Life
Junior married to Theresa Edwards, who has appeared occasionally on the show and joined the family’s business efforts. They had two sons. Willie Edwards, who followed his father into hunting and on-screen teamwork. Randy Edwards, who tragically passed away in a car accident in Iberville Parish in 2018 at around age 35.
Death
Junior Edwards passed away on July 2025. His grandson Willie Edwards announced on a Facebook post on July 26, “Rest easy pawpaw….i know your probably running your hoop nets or doing something crazy inside those pearly gates…you will be extremely missed pawpaw we love you more than anything!!! Until we meet again”.
Ashley Deadeye Jones wrote on Instagram,
“The world lost a legend! Mr Junior Edwards passed away! Please be in prayer for the family! He was one of the greatest alligator hunters there is! He was real hardcore outdoorsman! I watched this man bring in MONSTER gators at Duffys Gas Station in Pierre Part LA. This was after a looooong day for both of us and you can tell it! Glad we took a second for a pic!”.
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