In Loving Memory of Stephanie M. Florio
September 7, 1954 – August 23, 2025

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of our beloved Stephanie M. Florio, who left us on August 23, 2025, in East Greenbush, New York. Born on September 7, 1954, in the Borough of Queens, New York, Stephanie lived a life marked by compassion, strength, and a deep commitment to others.

Stephanie dedicated her life to service — including as a paramedic with the Greater Amsterdam Volunteer Ambulance Corps, and later as a substance abuse counselor, where she offered guidance and hope to countless individuals in need. Her work was more than a job; it was a calling, and she met it with grace, empathy, and tireless dedication.

Stephanie was a confidant to many and was known for her thoughtfulness whenever she was asked to offer some advice.  She was well-read and a poet at heart.  Always one to have a good joke, a song parody, a good story to tell, and always a calm and kind presence.

Stephanie was proficient in several musical instruments, especially on drums, having played in several local bands, and on the trumpet in the Schenectady Orchestra. A lifelong learner, Stephanie returned to school later in life to pursue higher education. She earned her Associate's degree from Schenectady County Community College and went on to receive her Bachelor's degree from the University at Albany—achievements that brought her and those who loved her immense pride.

Beyond her professional and academic achievements, Stephanie was a woman of many passions. She held a 3rd degree black belt in Chinese Martial Art style of Shaolin Kung Fu and Tai Chi, as well as the Japanese Martial Art of Kota - a testament to her discipline and strength, and she loved playing or watching tennis whenever she could. She brought vitality and humor to every gathering, and she made friends feel like family with her unwavering loyalty and warmth.

Stephanie was predeceased by her loving parents, Josephine B. Varela and Savino J. Florio. She is survived by her devoted sisters, Carol Ann Franciosi and Annette G. Florio; her cherished niblings, Steven, Gabrielle, Jessica, and Alexis; and her adored great-niblings, Max, Sage, David, Josephine, Michael, and Giuseppe. She also leaves behind her dear friends Michael, Teresa, Darcey, Marian, and DJ, along with many others who were touched by her friendship and generous spirit.

Stephanie lived life well and lived it for others. Her legacy will continue in the lives she helped, the family she loved fiercely, and the example she set as a strong, compassionate, and courageous woman.

There will be no formal funeral services. Those who wish to honor Stephanie's memory are invited to make a donation to the American Cancer Society—an organization she supported and one that reflects her lifelong dedication to helping others. You can also honor her memory by giving blood or platelet donations at your local Red Cross.

May her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to us all.