Robert Glenn Fender, 54, of Marion, departed this life on Monday, October 28, 2024 at Mission Hospital in Asheville.
He was born November 19, 1969 in Dalton, Georgia to Carolyn Howell Fender and the late Buddie Robert Fender.
Rob’s service in the United States Navy aboard the USS Brewton during Desert Storm showcased his dedication and strength. This chapter of his life was a testament to his commitment not just to his country, but to the values of bravery and duty.
Music was Rob true passion; he thrived on stage where he could blend his love for performance with his desire to bring happiness to others. Whether playing his guitar or engaging with the crowd, he felt truly alive when he made others smile from the stage. His signature move of stepping into the crowd was emblematic of his generous spirit and connection with his audience.
Rob will be remembered for his humor, his wonderful story telling skills, and for the hugs he gave which have been described as the best in the world. He had a heart for children and animals, but the love he had for his daughters was unmatched. Rob was widely known as a faithful and devoted friend. He was a Christian who had a very strong faith that he loved to share with others.
In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Lewis and Frances Fender and his maternal grandparents, Glenn and Mabel Howell.
Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Carolyn Fender; partner, Krista Langlois; two daughters, Kayla Woody (Anthony) and Rhiannon Fender; three grandchildren, Tucker Woody, Barrett Woody, and Micah Woody; two sisters, Kim Chamlee (Michael) and Heather Jacobs (Bobby); four nieces and nephews, Paige Chamlee, Tyler Chamlee, Ivy Potter, and Fuller Potter; a great-niece and great-nephew, Addie Davidson and Kyzer Davidson; and an uncle, Charles Fender (Betty).
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 3, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Beam Funeral Service with Reverend Steve Hawkins officiating. No formal visitation will be held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to Valley Strong Disaster Relief.
2170 Rutherford Rd, Marion, NC 28752

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more