Edward John “Eddie” Aviles, of Lecanto, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 28, 2025 in Ocala at HCA. He was 82. Eddie was born in New York City to Edward J. and Maria Bertilia “Betsy” Diaz Aviles.
He worked for the NYPD for twenty years before retiring, and moving to Spring Hill, FL. Eddie moved to Citrus County about seven years ago. He was a life member of the American Legion Post #155 in Crystal River, and he was a member of the National Association of Retired Law Enforcement Officers (NARLEO) which is based out of Lecanto. Eddie enjoyed playing pickle ball on a regular basis.
Eddie is survived by his loving wife Meira del Carmen Almonte Aviles of Lecanto; his sons Jeremy Stringfellow of Seattle, Washington and Jason Roman of Spring Hill, FL; his siblings Daniel Aviles, Yolanda Matos, Daisy Aviles, Clarence Aviles, Christina Green, Carlos Aviles, Sonia Aviles, Peter Smith, and Duan Stern; and many other family members.
Eddie’s family will receive friends and a Celebration of his life will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025 beginning at 10:00am at the Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home chapel. He will be laid to rest in Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home with Cremation Care.
8 Comments
Eddie was a true gentleman. I will miss him. Condolences to all family and loved ones.
Eddie The Rabbit ,We lost our dear friend , a big brother to our Paddle Ball family. Eddie wasn’t only a great friend but also a Navy veteran and a proud New York City Police Officer who dedicated his life to service. On and off the court his strength, kindness, and laughter touched us all. He would follow me home after every game to make sure I arrived safe. Well my friend the games won’t be the same without you but his spirit will always be with us. Rest in peace, Eddie the Rabbit, until we meet again.
I met Eddie on the pickleball court. I loved playing with him and against him. Always upbeat and positive and a wonderful person to know. May your spirit continue on through the lives you touched.
Eddie touched many lives, always in a positive way. His sportsmanship carried over to his personal life. He will be missed by many. May his comfort be in the loving care of Jesus!
I mourn the loss of a dear friend, both on and off the paddleball court—Eddie, known to many as “The Rabbit.” On the court, his game pushed me to play harder, compete sharper, and laugh louder. Our friendship was built not only on competition, but on respect and camaraderie.
I will always cherish the battles we shared, the victories and defeats, and the bond that grew stronger through the game we both love. The courts will never be the same without The Rabbit.
Eddie and I were also Brothers in Blue—proud members of our fraternal family, the New York City Police Department. His memory will live on in the game, in the brotherhood, and in the hearts of those who knew him. Our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Meira, and family.
RIP Brother in Blue. I am a better person for having the honor of knowing you.
My big cousin Eddie, big at heart and big because I was a little girl and you were so tall. You served your country and you served your city. Always the protector. I’ll miss you! There will always be a place in my heart for you. Please say hi to your mom, my mom,my dad, Andy, Adam, Venus and of course Grandma. Rest in peace cousin. You did your job on this earth, God will welcome you with open arms.
✌🏼🫶🏼🙏🏼
“Those. we love don’t go
away, they walk beside us
Every day… Unseen,
unheard, but always near ,
Still loved , Still missed, and
very dear.”
Eddie your visits to my
Cousin ,Ana Miriam
and I were always
such a delight. …
A caring soul indeed.🕊️
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