Stephen Paul Quaranta

Stephen Quaranta, affectionately known as Steve, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025, at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City at the age of 58, surrounded by his loved ones. A devoted husband, father, and friend, Steve touched countless lives with his kindness, generosity, humor, and wisdom.

Born on November 23, 1966, in Brooklyn, New York, Steve was the son of Ann Marie Quaranta. Raised in Brooklyn, he honed his entrepreneurial skills as a young boy while working at a local bagel shop. At 18, he trained as a butcher, mastering the craft of meat cutting. Steve graduated from New Utrecht High School in 1984, where he learned valuable life lessons about earning a living and supporting himself and others on the streets of Brooklyn.

After high school, Steve embarked on a remarkable entrepreneurial journey, owning and operating several businesses. His first venture was a deli and butcher shop in Long Beach, New York. He later purchased Clyne & Murphy, a restaurant and catering business in Westfield, New Jersey. After relocating to New Jersey, Steve managed gumball machine routes, launched a decorative gift basket and cookie delivery service, and worked as a meat manager at ShopRite. In 2013, he acquired Bagel Talk in Neptune, New Jersey, which continues to operate today.

In 2003, Steve married Jennifer Janeway, his beloved partner of 22 years. Together, they raised their twin daughters, Ava and Emma Quaranta, age 13, who survive him. From a previous relationship, Steve was also the proud father of Steve Jr. and Diana, and the cherished grandfather of Anthony, Camilla, and Lorenzo.

An avid fisherman, Steve cherished the camaraderie of fellow anglers more than the catch itself. He braved all weather conditions, always ensuring he brought sandwiches or cookies to share with others on the boat. Steve was also a talented chef and baker, renowned for his holiday feasts where he skillfully cooked, carved, and served the meat—overcooking it only once in 22 years. He took great pride in sourcing the finest desserts from around the world for his family and friends to enjoy and rate.

Steve is survived by his wife, Jennifer; twin daughters, Ava and Emma; children, Steve Jr. and Diana; grandchildren, Anthony, Camilla, and Lorenzo; and his extended family, including Dean and MaryAnn Janeway, Dean and Annamarie Janeway, Michael Janeway and his fiancée Abigail Rios, Matthew Janeway, Vanessa Janeway, and William Janeway.

A viewing will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Layton's Funeral Home, 250 Lacey Road, Forked River, New Jersey 08731. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any charity that supports animals, a cause close to Steve's heart.

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