Lee Marlow, RCA Recording Artist and Maritime Bluegrass Icon, Dies After Cancer Battle
Ashburn, VA / June 12, 2025 – Lee Marlow (born Leo Cormier), a celebrated Maritime musician and RCA recording artist whose signature song “Joanne” captured the hearts of Atlantic Canada, passed away on June 11, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer. He leaves behind his wife Joanne Marlow and their children, including son Julien. He was widely known both by his stage name, Lee Marlow, and by his given name, Leo. he was a devoted family man and cherished friend to many in the music community.
📌 Obituary Quick Facts
Name: Lee Marlow (born Leo Cormier)
Died: June 11, 2025, after long battle with cancer
Affiliations: RCA (three studio albums), Calico, Cajun Moon collaborators
Signature Works: “Joanne” (Top‑10 hit, 1981), Lovin’ Thru the Early Hours (debut album)
Honors: Two-time Juno nominee (Country Male Vocalist, 1982–83)
Memorial: Tribute concert, Maritime Bluegrass Festival – Friday night, August [insert exact date], [insert location]
Survived by: Wife Joanne Marlow; children including Julien; extended musical family
Musical Career Rooted in the Maritimes
Self-taught on guitar from age 15, Cormier formed his first band, performing at festivals, fairs, and clubs across the Maritimes and Ontario. Under the stage name Lee Marlow, he recorded three albums in the early 1980s in Nashville and Toronto—Lovin’ Thru the Early Hours (1981), Too Long Gone (1982), and Temptation (1984)—all released on RCA Backed by his band Calico and legendary session musicians, Marlow charted eleven singles in Canada. His debut album spawned the Top‑10 hit “Lovin’ Thru the Early Hours,” and his beloved “Joanne,” written for his wife, resonated across radio and TV
Marlow’s name has long been synonymous with authentic Maritime sound. With a career rooted in traditional country and bluegrass, he rose to prominence as a recording artist signed with RCA, performing with heartfelt precision and an unmistakable voice that earned him recognition as one of New Brunswick’s most revered musicians. His legacy is not only etched in the tracks he recorded but in the lives he touched through decades of performances, mentorship, and collaboration.
Over the years, Marlow shared the stage with many regional talents, including bands like Cajun Moon, comprising Jean-Marc Comeau, Peter “Gwezee” Clement, and Tommy Fox. Together, they brought his music to life in ways that inspired fellow musicians and deepened the cultural resonance of bluegrass in the region.
“He made us better musicians and better people,” one former bandmate reflected. “We were lucky to play backup for Lee Marlow many times.”
News of Marlow’s passing prompted a wave of tributes from across the music community and beyond. Flo Durelli, a fellow performer and admirer, wrote: “I had the honour and the privilege to have played with both [Lee and Bob Glidden] during my musical journey… They left a mark on the music scene and paved the way for many.”
Known off-stage as Leo, Marlow was equally celebrated for his warmth and kindness. Friends recalled him as a man who carried a smile even through his illness. “Even sick, he greeted me with a big smile and we talked about our Leafs,” a lifelong friend wrote in remembrance. “Leo, I know you’ll be cheering them on from heaven—Go Leafs Go!”
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Marlow was deeply devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife Joanne, and children JM À Marlow and Julien, among other relatives, friends, and admirers who mourn his passing and celebrate his legacy.
Marlow’s artistry helped define a genre and uplift a region. His songs, performances, and the community he fostered endure as testaments to a life lived with purpose, talent, and integrity.
Legacy of Mentorship & Community
Even after stepping away from national attention in the late 1980s, Marlow remained a central figure in New Brunswick’s music community. Members of Cajun Moon—Jean‑Marc Comeau, Peter “Gwezee” Clement, and Tommy Fox—reflected that performing with him “made us better musicians and better peoples.” Artist Flo Durelli noted his impact:
“I had the honour…they sure left a mark and impression on the music scene and paved the way for many. Thank you for your music.”
Warmth Beyond the Stage
Marlow, affectionately known as “Leo,” was admired for his big smile and warmth, even during illness. As a longtime friend shared:
“He had a big smile and we complained about our Leafs!!…Leo I know you’ll be cheering on our Leafs from heaven, GO Leafs Go!!”
Tribute at Maritime Bluegrass Festival
To honor Marlow’s musical legacy, a special tribute performance is scheduled for Friday night at this summer’s Bluegrass Festival in New Brunswick. The event will feature appearances by some of his former bandmates and close musical collaborators, including Bob Glidden, in what organizers describe as a celebration of “one of the greatest musicians New Brunswick has ever seen.”
Lasting Influence
Marlow’s music—rooted in coastal life, heartfelt storytelling, and community spirit—continues to inspire. From his RCA recordings and Juno Award nominations in 1982 and 1983 to his ongoing mentorship of local talent, he leaves a legacy of resilience and regional pride
Plans for a public memorial or further commemorations have not yet been announced. The family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of condolences and support during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Lee Marlow. Your music lives on.
