Edwin Frank Veiga

Edwin Frank Veiga

Greenville, SC

Col. (Ret.) Edwin (Ed) Frank Veiga, age 76, most recently of Greenville and Texas passed away on November 22, 2025 after a brief battle with cancer.

Ed was born on August 27, 1949 in San Juan, PR to Nicolas and Maria Veiga. He proudly served his country for 29 years in the United States Army. Following participation and leadership roles in high school ROTC, Ed enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 18. He left the military briefly to complete his bachelor's degree, then rejoined the Army as an officer. Ed was a helicopter pilot, favoring the Apache, eventually becoming a battalion commander at Fort Riley, KS. Following this assignment, Ed shifted to public affairs, first working for the assistant secretary of defense (Pentagon) and later as the Director of Public Affairs for the III Armored Corps at Fort Hood (formerly Fort Cavazos). Ed retired at Fort Hood in June 2001, having earned numerous awards and commendations throughout his service, including: Defense Superior Service Medal; Legion of Merit (2 awards); Meritorious Service Medal (4 awards); amongst numerous others. His military career made him a citizen of the world–his work with the Secretary of Defense took him to dozens of countries and catalyzed a love of travel and international culture.

Always passionate about learning, Ed earned multiple master's degrees in broadcasting journalism, business, and military education. He was also a great mentor, and loved helping others learn, spending many hours with his kids reviewing flash cards and math homework , ending each study and homework session with copious reminders of his children’s capabilities and intelligence. His passion for education extended to his distinguished post-military career. After retiring from the Army in 2001, Ed served on the board, then transitioned to a full time leadership position, for the Military Child Education Coalition, a non-profit organization that advocated for the unique needs of the children of military families. He also worked for Actus, which provided housing for military families. The final phase of his career was with NMSI, the National Math and Science Initiative (a non-profit organization that seeks to advance STEM education for all students), as Senior Director of Government and Corporate Relations. . He was also an active member of the Rotary Club while living in the Killeen area. He and his wife, Joan, loved being involved in their children’s lives, attending every possible school performance and function, coaching soccer teams, and supporting all interests and events— amidst busy professional and personal lives. This depth of care extended beyond their own children, with many friends fondly remembering Ed as their own “Daddy Veiga” thanks to both parents' considerable reach of love and support to anyone who wanted or needed it. Ed’s relationships were what he treasured most, and none were more important than those with his family.

Edwin is survived by his loving wife, Joan Veiga; his children, Jason Veiga (Stefany), Jenna Veiga (Benjamin), and Jillian Gusukuma (Stephen); his grandchildren, Elijah, Olivia, and Nicholas; and his brothers, Edgar, Lawrence, and Richard Veiga. He was predeceased by his parents.

A private service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Fisher House, the National Military Family Association, or your local Army ROTC.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory-Downtown, Easley, SC.