MINNEAPOLIS — The Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed Wednesday, June 15, that it is investigating the cause of death for Samantha Edwards, a former Fargo resident who was crowned Miss North Dakota USA for 2003.
Edwards, 37, was found dead about 7:37 a.m. Tuesday, June 14, at 1722 Upton Ave. N., Minneapolis, the medical examiner’s office said in a news release
The cause and the manner of death are pending further investigation by Minneapolis police and the medical examiner’s office.
A friend of Edwards, 2004 Miss Minnesota USA Jessica Dereschuk of Minneapolis, started a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral and other unexpected expenses for Edwards.
The page had raised about $12,300 of a $15,000 goal by about 2 p.m. Wednesday.
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"To Samantha Edwards....I love you so much. You will always be my best friend and I'm still saving you a seat at the wedding," Dereschuk wrote as part of her tribute to Edwards. "You left us all way too soon, but in true Diva style, you will have us talking about you forever.....you left positive mark on this world and in my life and I will continue to live life with passion and love because I know that is what you would want. I will see you again my beautiful friend."
On Facebook, AVIV 613 Vodka wrote that, "We are saddened by the sudden loss of Samantha Edwards, our friend who worked as an instrumental part of our team. Samie was a truly wonderful human being, full of positive energy, warmth and kindness. She loved to help others and touched the lives of everyone lucky enough to be around her. We will miss you, Samie!"
On her Facebook page, Edwards said she had studied at the University of North Dakota and the Aveda Institute, Minneapolis.
Edwards was crowned Miss North Dakota USA at the Fargo Theatre on Sept. 1, 2002.
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