SAN ANTONIO – Robert "Papa Bear" Edwards, founder of the San Antonio AIDS Foundation, died Thursday.
Edwards died of natural causes after a long illness.
SAAF CEO Cynthia Nelson released the following statement regarding Edwards' passing:
"The San Antonio AIDS Foundation is profoundly saddened by the passing of our founder, Robert "Papa Bear" Edwards.
"He was San Antonio's first major HIV/AIDS advocate, founding our organization in 1986 when so many people -- even doctors and health care professionals -- were terrified of the still relatively unknown virus that causes AIDS.
"It was a time of fear, panic and desperation for so many -- especially in the gay community. People were sick and dying and had nowhere to turn for help or comfort. But thanks to Papa Bear, they found a safe and caring place where they were not shunned or turned away. His hospice work started behind his gay bar, Papa Bear's, on Broadway near Mahnke Park, then grew to a small rental house nearby, and then eventually to an abandoned nursing home at 818 E. Grayson St., where we are still headquartered today.
"He not only initiated the first community-based response to the AIDS epidemic in San Antonio, he started the first community-based anonymous HIV testing service. His compassion knew no bounds and his vision laid the groundwork for what has become the city's oldest and largest HIV/AIDS service agency.
"He retired in 1991, but remained a strong advocate for the fight against HIV/AIDS for the rest of his life. San Antonio owes Papa Bear a huge debt of gratitude for his vision, his tireless work and his dedicated service. And 30 years after its founding, his legacy lives on in the work of the San Antonio AIDS Foundation through our continued mission to prevent the spread of HIV in our community and to offer comprehensive and compassionate service to those who are affected by HIV/AIDS.
"We offer our sincere condolences to Papa Bear's family and friends. As soon as we have information on final arrangements, we will share them with the public."