Stephen John Ozyjowski's Obituary
Stephen John Ozyjowski of Tilghman passed away in the loving arms of his best friend, his wife Jean, on August 1, 2024, at UMMC Easton from sepsis. He was 77 years old. Stephen was born on May 10, 1947, in Newton N.J., to Stephen and Pauline Ozyjowski. He was raised in Great Meadows NJ where he was involved in many sports from an early age. He was an All-Star athlete in football and baseball at Hackettstown High School. He participated in athletics and received a BA in education at Bethany College in Lindsborg, KS, then completed his education at Rider College (now Rider University) in Lawrenceville NJ with an MA in educational leadership. Steve was a teacher, coach, assistant school superintendent, and school superintendent in Allamuchy Township, NJ for 29 years, retiring in 2000. In addition, he owned and operated SJO Inc. general contracting service for over 20 years. He was the Director of Recreation in Independence Township NJ for several years and served on the township's Planning Board as well.
Stephen and Jean married at their home in Allamuchy on August 25, 1989. Together they traveled, antiqued, entertained, worked, played, and enjoyed life to the fullest. Their dream of living on the water came true when they moved to Tilghman in 2002. Steve loved spending his time with Jean exploring and learning about the Eastern Shore, boating, golfing, gardening, and loving life. He loved to entertain friends and family and showcase his excellent bartending and culinary skills. He was a member of Christ Church, St Michaels since 2002 where he and Jean were docents for several years. He was a voracious reader and devoured the news daily. He loved the Orioles and Navy football. He took pride in mentoring others to work hard and find pride in doing so. Stephen was a good man, a kind and generous man, a man of faith and principle. He will be loved and missed forever.
Stephen leaves behind Jean, his wife, partner, and true soul mate; his treasured daughter, Nora Brinkley of Dallas TX; and precious grandson, Nolan Brinkley, also of Dallas, of whom he was so proud. He is also survived by his beloved brother Arthur and his dear sister-in-law Sharon, of Jefferson ME, and his devoted brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ken and Karen Lanno of Easton MD. He also leaves behind his most precious 21 year old kitty, Holly.
Visitation will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 9th at Frampton Funeral Home, 312 S. Talbot St. St Michaels, followed by a Memorial Service at Christ Church, Talbot & Willow Streets, St Michaels at 11 a.m.
Stephen truly loved and cared about the welfare of all animals. If you wish to honor his memory, a donation to Talbot Humane Society would be most appreciated.
Arrangements are entrusted the Framptom Funeral Home -Ostrowski of St. Michaels.
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