May 12, 2026
The University mourns the loss of Talent Development academic advisor and success coach Corey Michael Fernandez, of Warwick, who passed away May 5 at Kent Hospital. He was 42 years old.
Born in Providence, Corey was the youngest son of Gerald A. Fernandez and the late Debra Jackson Fernandez. Corey attended the University of Rhode Island, earning a bachelor’s degree in communication studies in 2008. He went on to earn a master of science degree in human development and family studies (college student personnel) in 2018.
A member of the URI Talent Development team since 2017, Corey was a relentless advocate for his students whose commanding physical presence was dwarfed only by his intellect, conviction, and compassion. He believed strongly in financial literacy, education, family, and Black excellence. 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.”
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).
His family and friends meant everything to him, and he gave endlessly to those he loved and to the countless young students he mentored.
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.
He is preceded in death by grandparents Edith Roberts, Alex Jackson (Savannah), Barbara G. and Julio Fernandez; elder brother Gerald A. Fernandez Jr.; and aunts Virginia Fernandez and Christine Vega.
Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Friday, May 15, from 4 to 7 p.m., followed by a funeral service on Saturday, May 16, from 9 to 11 a.m. Both will be held at Rebello Funeral Home, 901 Broadway, East Providence. Food and fellowship will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to the University of Rhode Island Talent Development Program.
To view the full obituary or to leave condolences, please visit Rebello Funeral Home.