Steven A. Conte

Steven A. Conte of Smithtown, NY died on February 23, 2026 at the age of 69. Steven died in his sleep, a peaceful passing that so many people pray for. He is survived by his wife of 43 years Barbara, his daughter Amanda, and his beloved grandchildren Hudson, Siena, Natalia, and Noah. He is also tremendously missed by his sister Sandy, nieces, nephews, in-laws, friends, colleagues, neighbors, and so many others on whom he has left an indelible impact.

Steven was born August 23, 1956 in Jamaica, Queens to Vita and George Conte. His family spent time living in Brooklyn and eventually settled in Bellmore, NY where he met his wife. The two were matched by Steven’s cousin on a blind date and the rest was history.

Steven and Barbara lived in New Jersey, Florida, and eventually back home to Long Island – collecting memories and good friendships along the way.

Steven began working in the hospitality industry in 1985, spending the vast majority of his career working at luxury hotels including the New York Plaza, Regent Wall Street, and 20 years at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group – opening the Columbus Circle property and working there until his retirement in 2023. His colleagues were always quick to mention his warmth, mentorship, and deep commitment to those he worked with.

Shortly after his retirement, Barbara and Steven’s son Matthew was tragically lost after being struck by a car while out for a run. The loss devastated the entire family, leaving a tremendous hole in Steven’s heart from which he was still recovering.

Steven and Barbara were avid travelers and spent many wonderful years exploring the world whether on family cruises and trips, regular trips to Asia for work, European tours with friends, or short excursions to explore new places. This obituary is written by his daughter and I could not be more thankful for every trip we took and every memory captured.

While he had many hobbies and interests including the 100+ Broadway shows he attended, a love for trying new restaurants, and spending time gossiping with neighbors at the pool, he had no greater love than becoming a grandfather to Hudson, Siena, Natalia and Noah. They brought him more joy than anything in this world.

Steven had an incredibly gregarious spirit – known for spinning napkins above his head at weddings, dressing as a turkey for work events, and being the first person to offer help to those in need of advice. He was our lighthouse, and we will continue to look for his light in the many corners of life he shaped.

We find comfort in knowing he is reunited with Matthew, his parents, and so many other loved ones who have been lost.

Steven was laid to rest on March 2, 2026 at Cemetery of the Holy Rood.

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