Edward S. Trainor

Edward S. Trainor of Ogdensburg, New York, passed away on January 6, 2026, from complications related to heart disease, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and diabetes. Ed was born on February 1, 1957, in Syracuse, New York, to Joseph and Elizabeth Trainor. He grew up in Massena, New York, where he developed a lifelong passion for music. Musical in every sense, Ed played many instruments and became an accomplished trumpet player. Throughout his school years, he immersed himself in music through concert band, marching band, orchestra, and choir. His classmates fondly remember him as funny, intelligent, artistic, and deeply musical. Ed's friends called him the 'the Professor'.
In the spring of 1976, while a senior at Massena High School, Ed enlisted in the United States Marine Corps through the Delayed Enlistment Program. After graduating in June 1976, he reported to Recruit Training at Parris Island that September. He auditioned for-and was accepted into-the Marine Musician Program. Ed proudly served four years traveling the world as a trumpeter with the Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps.
Following his military service, Ed pursued a career in radio under the on-air name Ed Thomas, working as a DJ during the 1980s into the 2000s for radio stations in Massena, Potsdam, and Canton. Over the years, he also worked at local music stores in Potsdam and Massena, a local line-striping company, and Walmart in Potsdam. Ed generously shared his love of music with family and friends and was always willing to bring along his guitar to serenade a gathering. Music was not just a talent for Ed-it was his way of connecting with others.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Anne Faulkner of New Hartford, New York. He is survived by his aunt, Linda Viau, and her husband, Richard Baker of Williamson, New York; brother-in-law David Faulkner of New Hartford, New York; brother and sister-in-law Joseph and Patty Trainor of Cicero, New York; sister and brother-in-law Laura Trainor-Collins and Thomas Collins of Garland, Texas; nephew Ryan Trainor of Cicero, New York; nieces Kate Trainor-Leonis and her husband Stephen of Binghamton, New York; Nicole Trainor and her husband Kenny Davis of Saratoga, New York; Megan Faulkner of Utica, New York; and Briana Faulkner of Utica, New York; five great-nephews; and many cousins in New York, Massachusetts, and Michigan.
Ed will be remembered for his quick wit and intelligence, generous spirit, and the music he so freely shared with everyone around him. He loved animals and always had several pets. Donations in Ed's memory may be made to the Ogdensburg SPCA. A celebration of life will be planned for late spring.