AR15.com founder Edward Avila has passed away after a prolonged fight with cancer. He was 49 years old. Avila started ARFCOM more than two decades ago, growing it into an internet powerhouse in the firearms world. While a few people may criticize the antics of some of the members of the forum-based website, I attribute much of my knowledge and experience from the wealth of information shared in the technical forums over the years. My love for silencers and NFA weapons has deep roots within the AR15.com community and if I need a question answered or I’m looking for new gun inspiration, it’s always my first stop.

Our condolences go out to Avila’s friends and family and we share our gratitude for his creation of providing the world with an invaluable firearms resource.

AR15.com Founder Edward Avila – 1971-2020

https://www.ar15.com/forums/General/-ARFCOM-Founder-Edward-Avila-Passed-Away-3-31-/5-2312718/

AR15.com Founder Edward Avila – 1971-2020

Edward passed away today after a long battle with cancer. He fought until the end, sharing his story with the community (in the Team Forum) and hopefully inspiring hope in others. He was ever stoic, honest, and accepting of what life had put before him and he made the most of every moment he was able to cram into his last year. Even at the end, he did not ask for anything, did not complain, did not give in. He went out on his own terms, fighting and stubborn to the last.

I’m having to write this early because I know when the time comes, I wont have the strength to do so. Edward started this site as a mailing list back in 1996 when he left the military. He had a passion for the AR platform, but there simply was no information online about it. It was small back then, about 20 people for the long while, until internet usages and interest began to grow. The mail list quickly became 200+ people and needed a new approach. He enlisted my help and we moved it to a discussion forum format. It has since grown into an amazing community of folks, not just to talk and share firearm information, but to make friendships and look out for one another. ARFCOM changed from a firearm site, to a collection of patriots with a shared love of this country and what our founding fathers died for. His legacy will remain as long as we look out for one another, find the best in ourselves, and never give up on our rights.

Edward’s loss is a big one for the community. He was a huge source of knowledge, which he always loved to share. He was a passionate humanitarian and helped so many people because of this site. He was an incredible brother, one of my heroes, and my best friend. He was an amazing father, son, and loving husband. This world, which he leaves behind, will be a less special without him in it.

I could talk for days about Ed and the lives we lived and shared. I could talk about his impact on the world and the legacy he leaves behind. Instead, I invite you to share a memory you may have of Edward. A story, a shared experience, an exchange of ideas, a conversation, anything that made you smile. Let’s celebrate him for the things he did and remember a hero of the community. Sharing his memory will allow him to continue to live within each of us. Hopefully this will help his spirit continue to touch other folks and maybe inspire a few to change for the better.

I love ya bro and will miss you more than I can put into words.

Juan

Edward Avila 1971-2020
Veteran of the US Army

Leaves behind a loving wife, a wonderful son, and a grateful family.
Leader of the AR Movement, this website, and a major 2A supporter.
Friend to many in the community and industry.