Samuel Edgar Fernley

Samuel Edgar “Ed” Fernley II, cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend passed away peacefully from conditions incident to age on August 30, 2014. Ed was born on March 29, 1917 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Samuel Edgar and Hazel Williams Fernley. He leaves a legacy of consistent service to his family, community, and church.
Ed had an exceptional singing voice which he readily shared with everyone. His vocal talents were first on display at Bingham High School where he garnered praise for his leading roles in plays and musicals. Ed honorably served his country during World War II as a Navy man. He was a charter member of the famous Singing Sargeants, who were commissioned to sing for the Queen of England. He was a longtime member of the Swanee Singers, and enjoyed the friendships he developed there. Ed sang often in church services, rest homes, weddings, and command performances for his family. Frank Sinatra songs have always been his favorites.
Ed graduated from the University of Utah with a master’s in Music. He had a varied career which included the F.B.I, Kennecott Copper, and the U.S. Air Force. He then found his true calling, becoming a reading specialist, and taught in the Granite School District for 17 years.
Ed married Wilva Coles in 1949 and they were blessed with 5 children, one of whom died at birth. Wilva was a concert pianist and accompanied Ed whenever he sang. Ed’s employment took them to Washington D.C. for many years. Ed and Wilva enjoyed 50 years together and he lovingly cared for her when she became ill.
Ed married Barbara Jean Smith in 1990, and she brought 9 children to their union. Ed and Barb enjoyed many activities together including traveling, bowling, and their favorite hotspot- Wendover. He was the perfect Grandpa, as he loved being involved in the lives of his numerous grandchildren. He would often tell the kids- “don’t tell grandma”, when engaging in his escapades. He was a kind, generous, loving father who enriched the lives of his children. Family meant everything to him. He always said the greatest gift a father can give his children is to love their mother.
Ed was very active throughout his life. He loved to go boating and waterskiing. He excelled in tennis, and was an avid golfer. He spent innumerable hours on the golf course perfecting his game, well into his 90’s. Ed often used poems to impart his life philosophies. Ed always had a spring in his step, and a sparkle in his eye. He will be greatly missed.
Ed is survived by his loving wife Barbara, and his children Sam (Mary) Fernley, Kevin (Doris) Fernley, (Ellen Smith), Blake (Jan) Smith, Kendra (Scott) Reed, Wade (Sandy) Smith, Craig (Allison) Smith, Lisa (Phil) Davis, Loisann (Robert) Fellows, Lora (Jeff) Eskelson, Larry (Leslie) Smith, 46 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Lois and Ora, wife Wilva, a daughter Valerie, and two sons Greg and Jay.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 4, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at Mountain View Memorial, 3115 East 7800 South, Cottonwood Heights, UT. A viewing will be held Wednesday, September 3, 2014 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Mountain View Memorial.