Stephen McNulty

Stephen McNulty

Stephen McNulty

May 23, 1967~February 14, 2025
Stephen Edward McNulty, affectionately known as “Steve”, was born in St. Petersburg, Florida on May 23, 1967.  He lived the kind of life that brightened the world with music, kindness, and laughter.  After a short battle with cancer, he left us on February 14, 2025, at the age of 57, in Dunedin, Florida.  Although he is gone, his spirit lives on in the music he sang and in the memories of those who were fortunate to have known him.

Steve graduated from Clearwater Central Catholic High School in 1985.  It was at CCC that he honed in on his love for the sport of soccer, and he was good at it.  He established lifelong friendships and even got a stint playing with The Tampa Bay Rowdies professional soccer team.  He continued his journey of learning at the University of South Florida, where he obtained an Associate of Arts degree that would guide him through diverse and fulfilling roles.

His professional path led him through a decade-long tenure as National Director of Training for Bonefish Grill, where Steve’s leadership made a significant impact on many Bonefish Grill restaurants throughout the country.  It also led him to Nashville, Tennessee, where he lived for several years.  Nashville provided the perfect place for Steve to study and network with some amazing professional musicians.  In 2013, Steve embraced his true calling and became a full-time, self-taught musician, singer, and songwriter – a path that allowed the world to see the depths of his talents and the sincerity of his heart.  His music touched the lives of many, bringing people together and creating lifelong friendships grounded by music.

Steve was more than an artist; he was a great friend to thousands.  He had the uncanny ability to remember not just the faces and names of the people he met, but also the little things that mattered most to them.  He made everyone feel like they mattered, because to him, they did.  He really did make the world a better place.

Steve was predeceased by his loving parents Joseph P. McNulty and Norma V. McNulty, and brother-in-law Bob Fontana.  In addition to his beloved dog and best friend, Cash, he leaves behind a family that will preserve his memory and continue his legacy – his sister Maura Rickenbaker (Rickey), brother Pete McNulty (Tricia), sister Colleen Fontana, his nieces Callie Reitenour (Anthony), Shannon Lange (Michael), Brenna McNulty, Cassidy Hills, Morgan Fontana, Lindsay Fontana, Claire Rickenbaker, Sadie Fontana, a nephew Chad Hills (Nicole), one great-niece, Maddie Hills, three great-nephews, Bryson Myers, Connor Nelson, Bennett Hills, and two great-nieces/nephews on the way.

Arrangements were made with Dobie’s Funeral Home in New Port Richey, FL, who provided cremation services.  Steve’s family and friends will come together for a Funeral Mass honoring his life and faith on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 11:00 am at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 8320 Old County Road 54, New Port Richey, Florida, 34653.  Also on April 3, 2025, a “Celebration of Life” will be held from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Rosie’s Tavern in Dunedin Florida, where we will celebrate Steve with stories, laughter, and music.

In memory of Steve, donations to Suncoast Animal League (https://www.suncoastanimalleague.org/donate) and/or Accentcare Hospice (https://seasonsfoundation.org/donate-today/) would be greatly appreciated so each organization can continue to make positive impacts in the lives of those they serve.

In closing, we would like to share with you an Irish “toast” Steve recited at every one of his gigs…”There are good ships & there are wood ships, the ships that sail the sea.  But the best ships are friendships, and may they always be!” Steve, you were a friend to everyone you met – we will love and miss you forever!

Condolence

Patti Peres

February 18, 2025, 10:09 pm

Colleen, Maura, Peter, and Family. I am so sorry for your loss. I met Steve when I moved to Dunedin several years ago. He had played at Lucky Lobster and after his set I let him know how much I enjoyed him. I noted the restaurant’s FB page and received a friend request from Steve the next day. I was so surprised! Ever since I have followed him. As everyone has said, he was the kindest person. He flashed that huge smile when he saw people coming in and then gave that warm, friendly hug during a break. I will miss him and Cash. I hope his memory will give much comfort. Patti Peres

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