Hello Padraig! Nice to see you here!
You have given me so many clues, and so much information on which to continue this research, it has been truly incredible, and so very kind of you to take time out of your life to help a stranger. For anyone who is confused -- Padraig and I have also had several conversations over Facebook and it's been very helpful.
Right now, I'm in the process of following the leads through the RIC and newspaper records for Edward Jr. as you suggested. The only real problem I have encountered is how to get other things done like cooking, cleaning and schoolwork when I am so engaged in this research. It seems like your life can slowly slip away from you while you're reading and deciphering endless records! Just kidding of course, sort of

haha
I haven't looked at all at the Tithe records before you pointed me to them, so that will be another piece of the puzzle. And the Meehan obituary... I am beginning to think that Edward Sr. or possibly married a Meehan, Or Eliza's mother was a Meehan.
I will update you when I get more information, and again, thank you!
Heather