Corey Fernandez

It is with great sorrow that we announce the death of our beloved Corey Michael Fernandez, 42, of Warwick, Rhode Island, on May 5, 2026, at Kent Hospital.

Born on August 7, 1983, in Providence, Corey was the youngest son of Gerald A. Fernandez and the late Debra Jackson Fernandez. He was preceded in death by grandparents Edith Roberts, Alex Jackson (Savannah), Barbara G. & Julio Fernandez; elder brother Gerald A. Fernandez Jr., aunts Virginia Fernandez and Christine Vega.

Corey is survived by his brothers-at-arms, Derrick J. Fernandez and Rahmel Moody; uncles, Michael and Peter Fernandez, Alex Jackson (Pittsfield), aunts Diane “Dee Dee” Cropper, Julie Ann Fernandez; and beloved nieces and nephews: Amyer, Romen, Gerald III, Orion, Joscelyn, Mateo, and Emory Bodden. He also leaves behind many cousins and friends throughout New England, Minnesota, California, and Georgia.

Corey received his master’s degree from the University of Rhode Island, where he also served as an Academic Advisor and Success Coach in the Talent Development Program.

He was a relentless advocate for financial literacy, education, family, Black excellence, and Second Amendment rights. A fierce competitor on the football field, Corey was also an avid sneaker collector, sock aficionado, gifted writer, powerful speaker, and natural leader. Music was another passion, and he created songs alongside his brothers in Pharaohs (MN) and Pride Music Group (RI).

Corey’s commanding physical presence was dwarfed only by his intellect, conviction, and, above all, his compassion. His family and friends meant everything to him, and he gave endlessly to those he loved and to the countless young students he mentored.

To hear Corey encourage and guide students as they pursued their education was to witness a great example of “giving back and paying it forward”.

There was also Corey’s softer side: the funny, joyful big kid who reveled in every second spent rolling on the floor laughing with his niece Emory. Corey may be gone from this world, but his spirit, his love, and the enormous impact he made on so many lives will remain with us.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Friday, May 15, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a funeral service on Saturday, May 16, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, both held at REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, RI 02914. Food and fellowship will follow the service. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Talent Development Program at The University of Rhode Island in Corey’s name.