Edward's date of birth is unknown. He was the son of Robert Le Brus and Marjorie, daughter of the Earl of Carrick. Some time before 1313, Edward was created Earl of Carrick, a title previously held by his grandfather, his father and his elder brother. Though crowned King of Ireland (1316) he was killed at the Battle of Dundall. Some time before his death, he married Isabella, daughter of the Earl of Ross, but had no children by her. He had previously been married to, or had a liaison with, another Isabella, daughter of the Earl of Mar. The son of this relationship, Alexander de Bruce, inherited his father's earldom.