Stephen J. Graff's Obituary
Stephen J. Graff, 76, of Baldwinsville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 23, 2022, at Upstate Community Hospital. Stephen was born in Atlantic City, NJ to the late John and Elizabeth (Douglas) Graff. He received his masters in speech and drama from Catholic University and a doctorate from New York University. Stephen also pursued doctoral studies in religion at Syracuse University and became an ordained deacon with the Catholic Diocese of Rochester. His career as a professor spanned many various programs and universities, including, St. John University, Brooklyn College, Syracuse University, and the Deaconate Program of the Diocese of Rochester. He was the education director of many local parishes in the Syracuse area and the set and lighting designer for Syracuse area theater productions.
Stephen cherished time spent at his home in Boca Raton, he was an avid golfer and loved to visit Disney World; he especially loved Donald and Daisy Duck. He loved to uplift the hearts of others, his sense of humor was unmatched, and he loved to share his philosophies and wisdom with everyone.
In addition to his parents, Stephen is predeceased by his first wife, Judith (Schlinsock) Graff; his siblings, Barry, and Elaine Graff; his paternal grandparents, William and Jennie Graff and maternal grandparents, Sam and Irene Douglas.
He is survived by his wife of 10 years, Sharon (Semski) Graff; his daughters, Kathi (John) Gentry and Kellee (Mike) Ray- Tompkins; his sons, Richard (Kelly) Ray and Mark (Heather) Manes; 6 grandchildren; his sister, Karen (Ann Mullen) Graff; his brother, Reverend Timothy Graff; along with his dear band of cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Calling hours will take place on Friday, October 28, 2022, from 4 – 6 pm at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse. A funeral mass in celebration of Stephen’s life will be held at 10 am on Saturday, October 29, 2022, at St. Rose of Lima Church, 409 S. Main St., North Syracuse.
Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the Sisters of St. Francis, 6900 Buckley Rd. Syracuse, NY 13212.
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