Edward Bryan Hands, 74, formerly of Vicksburg, died at his home in Covington, La., on Dec. 14, 2017.

Born in Shreveport, La., he resided in Minden, La., until he graduated from high school. He attended Louisiana State University where he received a bachelor’s degree in geology.

After several years working for the Bureau of Lands and Mines, he enrolled at Washington State University where he received a master’s degree in oceanography.

In 1983, he moved to Vicksburg where he was employed by Waterways Experiment Station as a writer in coastal science. He published more than 50 scientific articles, most notably on the effect of sea level rise on shore erosion and the movement of sand on the sea’s floor.

While in Vicksburg, he became secretary of “The Vicksbirders” birding club, and served as a docent at The Church of the Holy Trinity.

He was an active scuba diver with his job at the Corps of Engineers and became a recreation diver with his wife. Together, they dove among the islands throughout the Caribbean.

After his retirement, he pursued his passion as a magician, using his wife as his assistant. Known as “The Entertaining Hands,” they performed at schools, churches, birthdays, retirement homes, nursing homes and hospitals. Ed became president of the Magicians International Ring No. 98 located in Jackson. Ed was protégé of Gene Grant, “The Famous Fantinny,” well-known mentalist and magician. Ed served as resident magician of The Church of the Holy Trinity in Vicksburg.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Lucile Pugh Hands; his brother, Richard Hands; and his oldest son, Adrian Hands.

He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Hilda Dent Hands; three sons, Jason Hands of Pagosa Springs, Colo.; Edward Beach Hands (Vicki) of Youngsville, La.; and Morgan Hands of Eunice, La.; three daughters, Debbie Sigh of Vicksburg, Lowry Fowler of Austin, Texas and Jolie Goodreau (Brennon) of Mandeville, La.; 11 grandchildren, Ian Hands (Mary), Shanti Hands, Austin Hands, Cameron Goodreau, Landon Goodreau, Brayden Goodreau, Logan Goodreau, Carley Hodges, Erin Sigh, Travis Sigh, and Rebecca Tarver (Thomas); and three great-grandchildren, Trinity Sholtis, Adrian Hands and Clayton Richmond.

Visitation will be Monday, Dec. 18, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Riles Funeral Home and Tuesday at 10 a.m. at The Church of the Holy Trinity.

The funeral begins at 11 a.m., at The Church of the Holy Trinity, with the Rev. Beth Palmer officiating. Burial will be at Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Lynn Bellah, Dave King, Mike Briggs, Andy Morang, Bill Seabergh, Michael Nation, and Jim Peay.

Honorary pallbearers include life-long friends, John Hebler, Billy Herring, Rick Hobson, Rob Kirst, John Ahrens, Clyde Day, Dickie Davis and Jim Baird.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Church of the Holy Trinity, 900 South Street, Vicksburg, MS 39180.