Edwin F. Fenner, 67, of Perry Street, Smithfield, died Saturday, March 23, 2019 at Fatima Hospital. He was the son of the late Edwin and Mary Theresa (Anderson) Fenner.
Born in Providence, he had lived in Smithfield for thirty years. Edwin was a well known professional musician all of his life until his illness in 2017. Ed was highly skilled in guitar, singing, song writing, and could play a variety of instruments by ear. He was well known throughout the New England area and beyond. Eddy was a member of several prominent Rhode Island bands including The Fabulous Mertz Brothers, O.K. Chorale, and Snakebite. Eddy belonged to the Country Music Association of Rhode Island and received a living legend award. He was inducted into the Rhode Island Country Music Hall of Fame in 2012. Eddy worked with many famous musicians including Tiny Tim, Merle Haggard, Johnny Paycheck, and Hank Thompson, just to name a few.
Edwin is survived by his siblings: Eileen Duhaime and her husband, Normand of Chepachet, Catherine E. Fenner of North Providence, and Judith A. Marafino of Harrisonburg, VA, six nieces and nephews and six great nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his loving companion, Marsha Niemi of Coventry.
Funeral services will be private. Burial will be in Pocasset Cemetery, Cranston. A Celebration of his Life will be held at a later date to be announced by the family.