Edwin W. Frye, 86, of Franklin, passed away the morning of Saturday, September 26, 2026 at The Caring Place.

He was born in Jeanette, PA to the late Leona Verna Raygor and William “Homer” Frye on January 13, 1940.

Ed graduated from Norwin High School in 1957, going on to earn his undergraduate degree from Mount Union College. He continued his education process and earned a Masters in Music Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

He shared his love of music across various school districts, including General McLane, Cambridge Springs, and Franklin Area School District, where he retired in 1995. Ed was known as a man of music, playing a variety of instruments in the Franklin Area for many years. His dedication to his students and music education was recognized many times over. Many of his students went on to become professional musicians. Many of those who didn’t make a profession of music continue to play to this day in various capacities. His influence on his students and peers encouraged them to lean into their passion for music throughout their lives.

Ed could often be found on Friday and Saturday evenings playing with many jazz combos. He also played in many pit orchestras for various high schools and theatrical productions.

Ed was the conductor of the Franklin Silver Cornet Band from 1970 to 1999. After his time as conductor, he could be found on Thursday evenings during concert season still playing as a member of the clarinet section. He was also a bassoon player and charter member in the Venango County Chamber Orchestra.

In 1989 he through-hiked the Appalachian Trail. He earned his private pilot license and would talk airplanes with anyone who would take the time to listen. He could also be found on a golf course or watching the Steelers or Penguins games.

Ed was a long-time member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Franklin.

He met his high school sweetheart, Doreen Roberts, in choir. They were married on October 14, 1960. Doreen preceded Ed in death on September 22, 2013.

Ed will be remembered by his children, as well as many of his students, as a role model, a leader, and the man who would push you to be the very best you could be. He demanded excellence in all avenues of life.

Ed is survived by his two children, Donna (David) Kisner of Saegertown and Fred (Robin) Frye of Polk. Also surviving are grandchildren Randy Frye of Washington, DC, Nathan (Mary) Frye of Brecksville, OH, Anna (Austin) Johnston of Meadville, and Eric Kisner of Meadville. Also left to cherish Ed’s memory are his great great grandchildren, Andrew and Christopher Frye of Brecksville, OH.

In addition to his parents and wife, Ed was preceded in death by a son, Bob Frye.

Following Ed’s wishes, there will be no services at this time. A memorial event will be held at a later date.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted with Huff-Guthrie Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. 312 W Park St. Franklin, PA 16323.

Ed and his family want to convey a heartfelt thank you to the staff of The Caring Place for all of the care over the years. You folks are the greatest.

Donations can be made in Ed’s memory to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy by visiting https://appalachiantrail.org, to Franklin Silver Cornet Band C/O Franklin City Hall 430 13th Street Franklin, PA 16323, or to the Barrow-Civic Theatre at P.O. Box 1089 Franklin, PA 16323.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting huffguthrie.com.