Key Takeaways
- Steve Odierno ’93, a beloved SJR alumnus and staff member, passed away recently, leaving a deep void in the school community.
- Known for his kindness and dedication, Steve worked as Director of Marketing after building a successful career following his education at Boston College and Fordham University.
- Memorial services will be held April 24-25 in New Jersey for Steve, who is survived by his wife Mariann and their two children.
The Saint Joseph Regional High School (SJR) community is mourning the profound loss of Steve Odierno, a beloved colleague, alumnus, father, and friend.
Steve passed away recently, leaving behind a deep void that will be felt for years to come.
In a heartfelt tribute, SJR shared,
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved colleague and friend, Steve Odierno ’93… Steve was a devoted member of the SJR community whose love for our school and its mission was felt by all who knew him. He lived the spirit of brotherhood with warmth, loyalty, and heart—and his absence will be felt deeply by all of us.”
Via Facebook
Services to honor Steve will be held at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home in Wyckoff, NJ, on Thursday, April 24, from 3:00 to 7:00 PM.Â
A funeral Mass is scheduled for Friday, April 25, at 10:30 AM at St. Elizabeth’s Church.
In his honor, SJR will begin the school day with Mass on Monday, April 28, and students are asked to wear dress shirts and ties.
A Life of Achievement And Impact
Steve Odierno graduated from Saint Joseph Regional High School in 1993.
His time there left a lasting impression on him, so much so that he described working there later in life as a “dream come true.”
After high school, Steve vigorously pursued higher education, earning a B.A. in English and Communications from Boston College and an M.A. in Public Communications from Fordham University.
Professionally, Steve built a dynamic career, with experience in the mortgage industry, financial services, business development, and even as an adjunct professor of international business.
In 2019, he returned to his roots at SJR as part of the Advancement Team, serving first as the Director of the SJR Fund and Leadership Giving and later as Director of Marketing — roles through which he made a tremendous impact.
Beyond his professional achievements, Steve gave back to his community through volunteer roles with the North Rockland Youth Hockey Association and St. Gregory Barbarigo School, where he coached youth basketball.
Remembered For His Heart And Spirit
Friends and colleagues have shared moving tributes to Steve’s character:
“We lost one of the finest human beings ever to walk this Earth. The loss of Steve is beyond devastating… He treated others with compassion but kept good humor in all he did. Rest in Peace, Steve.”
Via Facebook
Another friend added,
“Steve was such a kind and pleasant man. My deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the Odierno family.”
Via Facebook
And yet another said,
“An amazing and one-of-a-kind individual. Steve was always someone you could rely on for anything. He will be missed tremendously!”
Via Facebook
Steve was known for his kindness, reliability, sense of humor, and dedication to the essential things in life: family, friends, faith, and community.
A Legacy Of Love
Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Mariann Smith Odierno, and their two children, Steven Odierno ’23 and Katherine Odierno ’25 (currently attending Immaculate Heart Academy).
His love and commitment to his family were evident to all who knew him.
From his early days in West Nyack, New York, to his life in Stony Point, Steve carried with him a spirit of generosity and warmth that lifted those around him.
Through his professional work, coaching young athletes, or simply being a supportive friend, Steve embodied a life of purpose, kindness, and heart.
The Saint Joseph Regional community, along with countless friends, students, and colleagues, will carry his memory forward, honoring his legacy by striving to live with the same compassion, loyalty, and strength he showed daily.
Rest in peace, Steve Odierno!
