Eddie Lee Wide III

Eddie Lee Wide III November 19, 1988 — December 11, 2025 It is with profound sadness and deep love that the family of Eddie Lee Wide III announces his passing on December 11, 2025. Eddie was a beloved son, father, brother,uncle, friend, and mentor whose presence brought joy, strength, and laughter to all who knew him. Born on November 19, 1988, and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Eddie’s athletic journey was a defining part of his life. A standout at Cimarron Memorial High School, he was named Nevada’s Gatorade Player of the Year for the 2006–2007 season for his exceptional performance on the football field and earned numerous academic achievements, making him a true scholar-athlete. He went on to play at the University of Utah (2007–2011) on a full scholarship, where he became a celebrated running back for the Utes. Eddie helped lead the team to multiple bowl game appearances and was a beloved teammate, admired for his leadership, loyalty, and the camaraderie he brought to every practice and game. He was a proud member of the 2008 Utah football team, whose remarkable season earned induction into the University of Utah Athletics Hall of Fame in 2023, and he is featured in the College Football Hall of Fame. After college, Eddie pursued his dream of professional football with a stint in the NFL with the St. Louis Rams. Eddie dedicated his career serving at risk youth as a Juvenile Probation Officer, where his compassionate guidance and steady support made a lasting impact on countless lives. He approached every challenge with dedication, humility, and a genuine desire to lift others up. Beyond his professional and athletic achievements, Eddie was passionate about fitness and community. He was a co owner of The Lift Factory in Las Vegas, alongside his lifelong friends, Nick Rhodes and Ernest Wilmore, where his energy and encouragement helped foster a welcoming space for others on their fitness journeys. He also coached Pop Warner football, sharing his love of the game and mentoring young athletes. Above all, Eddie’s greatest passion was his family, especially his daughter, his princess, Layla. They were inseparable, best friends in every sense, sharing a bond full of laughter, love, and endless adventures. Whether they were building Legos, creating arts and crafts, exploring parks, or reading bedtime stories together, Eddie made every moment with Layla special. They carried each other through life, supporting her, and delighting in each other’s company. His love for his family guided everything he did, and he lived his life by the mottos: Family First and O.W.T.A.. Eddie’s personality was magnetic and uplifting. He was protective of his family and friends, loyal, humble, and effortlessly drew people toward him. He had a quick wit and a great sense of humor that made him the life of the party, and he had the rare ability to make others feel safe and loved in his presence. Eddie made everyone he met feel important, and his impact on the lives he touched will not be forgotten. He is survived by his loving daughter, Layla Christine Wide; his parents, Eddie Wide Jr., Terri Leach, and Traci Bassler; and his sisters Shanta Wide, Calais Wide, Mariah Bassler Wide, Destiny Hoye, Clarissa Rackley, and Savannah Francis. They will miss his laugh and smile, loud game nights, him always showing up for others, his positive attitude, and most of all, watching him be the best dad and raising all of the kids together. A viewing will be held on December 28, 2025, from 3–6 PM at Palm Downtown Mortuary & Cemetery, 1325 N Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101. A funeral service to celebrate Eddie’s life will be held on December 29, 2025, at noon at the same location. Family and friends are invited to honor his memory and share in the love he gave so freely. Eddie is resting in the arms of the Lord, forever cherished by his family and all who knew him. The family is proud to share that Eddie was an organ donor, and through his selfless gift, his organs have gone on to impact more than 150 lives worldwide. His spirit, laughter, and legacy of unwavering love will live on in the hearts of many. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to support Eddie’s family may donate to a fund established in his memory: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-eddie-wide-iii

Eddie Lee Wide III

November 19, 1988 - December 11, 2025