Edward J. Fagan Sr.

In Loving Memory of Edward J. Fagan, Sr. February 19, 1936 – June 30, 2026

"A life measured not by what he achieved, but by the love he gave."

There are people who spend their lives striving to become great. Then there are the exceedingly rare people whose greatness is found simply in being good. Edward J. Fagan, Sr. was one of those rare men. His greatness was never measured by titles, wealth, or recognition, but by the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the example he set for everyone fortunate enough to know him. Throughout his life, his daughter often told both him and others, "They broke the mold when they made you, because they simply don't make men like you anymore." Looking back now, those words ring truer than ever.

Edward J. Fagan, Sr. passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026, in Auburn, New York, at the age of 90. To his family and friends, he was simply "Eddie." While his family mourns the immeasurable loss of the man who was the heart of their family, they also celebrate a life extraordinarily well lived—a life defined by honor, humility, quiet strength, generosity, unwavering integrity, and unconditional love.

Born on February 19, 1936, Edward was raised by his devoted mother, Bernice, alongside her sister, Janet, whose love and guidance helped shape the remarkable man he would become. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and later dedicated his career to the New York State Department of Corrections, where he faithfully served until his retirement.

An exceptional athlete, Edward's natural talent earned him the opportunity to pursue professional baseball. Yet, in a decision that reflected the man he truly was, he chose family over fame, building a life defined not by personal achievement, but by love, service, and devotion to those who mattered most. Throughout Auburn, many regarded Edward as one of the finest athletes ever to come from the legendary Y Field, earning the admiration and respect of teammates, competitors, and lifelong friends.

While building his career in Corrections, Edward founded F & W Archery, combining his lifelong love of the outdoors with his passion for teaching others. He generously volunteered countless hours introducing local students to archery, believing it was about far more than hitting a target. It was about building confidence, discipline, and character.

Those who knew Edward knew he was happiest outdoors—with a fishing pole in his hand, walking through the woods, or gathered around a table enjoying a spirited game of cards with family and friends. There seemed to be very little he couldn't build, repair, or figure out. If someone needed help, they knew they could count on Edward.

One of the greatest blessings of Edward's life was his marriage to Linda A. Fagan. Their story began with what could only be described as fate. Edward had agreed to a blind date believing he was going to meet Linda's best friend. Instead, he met Linda, and from that moment, everything changed. Together they built a life rooted in unwavering love, faithfulness, laughter, sacrifice, and devotion to one another.

Edward was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda A. Fagan, and his beloved son, Timothy J. Fagan, both of whom remained forever in his heart.

He is survived by his loving children, Edward J. Fagan Jr. (Kathy), Michael D. Fagan (Rosalyn), Sara A. Fagan (Jami), and Melissa A. Derby (Rich); his cherished grandchildren, Edward III, Matthew, Patrick, Bailey, Abigail, and Kaitlyn; great-grandchild Fay and countless extended family members and dear friends. Known as "Grandpa" to his grandchildren and affectionately as "Pops" to many others, Edward's greatest joy was simply being surrounded by those he loved. Holidays, family traditions, and everyday moments shared with Sara, Jami, Bailey, Abigail, and Kaitlyn became some of the most treasured memories of his life.

To his family, Edward was so much more than kind. He was their protector, their teacher, their source of wisdom, and their safe place. He was the quiet strength that held everyone together. He never demanded respect; he earned it through the life he lived. His love was patient, unconditional, and steadfast, and he led by example every day of his life.

During the final chapter of his life, Edward was surrounded by extraordinary love and compassion. His daughter, Sara, lovingly dedicated herself to overseeing his care, ensuring every decision was made with the same compassion, dignity, and unconditional love he had spent a lifetime giving to others.

The family is especially grateful to Jami, whom Edward loved like a son. Even as Alzheimer's disease changed so much, the joy Edward felt whenever Jami was near never faded. Through his unwavering friendship, thoughtful acts of kindness, and many visits, Jami brought comfort, laughter, and happiness to Edward's final years.

Even as Alzheimer's disease slowly stole so much from him, it never stole the love, kindness, and gratitude that had become part of who he was. No matter how difficult the day or how few words remained, he never stopped telling his daughter, "I love you." He never stopped saying, "Thank you," and he never lost the gentle manners and respect for others that defined the way he lived his entire life. Those simple words became one of the greatest gifts he could leave his family.

In those quiet moments, our family was reminded that while Alzheimer's can steal memories, it cannot erase a lifetime of character. The love, gratitude, kindness, and grace that defined Edward's life remained with him until the very end.

The Fagan family extends its deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to Janelle, Debbie, Betsy, Elsa, Bridgette, Donna, Pam, Becky, Tommy Jo, Kate, Marsha, Ruth, Bonnie, and Abby whose compassion, friendship, and exceptional care brought comfort and dignity to Edward throughout his final years.

Some families have a father. We were blessed with the center of our family. Dad was our quiet strength, our steady hand, our voice of wisdom, and the heart that held us all together. His love shaped our family, and the values he lived by—honesty, humility, integrity, compassion, hard work, and unconditional love—will continue to guide us for generations to come.

Today we find comfort in knowing that Edward has been reunited with Linda, the love of his life, and with his beloved son, Timothy. It is a reunion our hearts can only imagine, but one that brings us peace.

Edward's life was a testament to the truth that true greatness is found not in accomplishments, but in the way we love others, the character we demonstrate, and the lives we quietly change for the better. His example will continue to live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory continue to be a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

A visitation for family and friends will be held next Tuesday, July 7th inside St. Joseph’s Cemetery Mausoleum from 10:00 am until 11:00 am with a service to immediately follow. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward J. Fagan Sr., please visit our floral store.