Stephen Ronald Fitzhenry
Stephen Ronald Fitzhenry, age 82, went home to be with our Heavenly Father and his beloved wife of 48 years, Lorraine Mazza Fitzhenry. Stephen, a first-generation Irish American, son of the late William and Bridget Fitzhenry and the youngest of nine brothers. He was born in Pittsburgh, PA, and enjoyed most of his life in North Carolina. Throughout his life he was a devout Catholic and God was the center of all family traditions.
Stephen is survived by his four children Steve Fitzhenry (Martha Fitzhenry), Marlene Fitzhenry Bissette (Greg Bissette), Karen Fitzhenry Boone (Bert Boone), and Suzanne Fitzhenry Rodriguez (Brooke Rodriguez). He had eleven grandchildren that will carry on his legacy: Brittny Bissette, Casey Bissette, Sara Fitzhenry Babbitt (Alex Babbitt), Patrick Boone, Meredith Bissette, Catherine Fitzhenry, Bridget Boone, Matthew Bissette, Stephanie Fitzhenry, Brooke Rodriguez, Colin Rodriguez, and great-grandchild Catherine Charles Babbitt. He is also survived by Leah Absher (Noah Absher, Zachariah Absher), Stephanie Jones (Dave Taylor, Joseph Taylor, Dorothy Taylor) and many special families, friends, and loved ones.
He had a positive impact on everyone he met, and he never met a stranger. He graduated high school from Central Catholic in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1957. He attended college at Allegheny College with a degree in business. He rose through the ranks at Hardee’s Food Systems to become Regional Director of Operations and had a successful career in the restaurant industry. His children and grandchildren have fond memories of helping him at his various restaurants.
Stephen was known by many names: Dad, Pap, Ron, Ronnie, Fitz, and Lorraine called him Crazy Bird. He was loved by all and considered everyone his favorite. He touched many throughout his life, and his passing has left a hole in our hearts. He loved watching the Steelers and always reminded his family, singing, “Pittsburgh’s going to the Super Bowl.” He always had excellent movie recommendations and a good show or series to watch. He loved listening to Leonard Cohen, a good joke, riddle, trick, singing karaoke, dancing, playing Euchre and Rummikub. It was always about having quality fun with his family. His most significant legacy is his Family. We love you, Dad, Pap, Ronnie, Ron, Fitz, and Crazy Bird forever and always. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church on Wednesday, June 15th at 11:00 in Apex, NC. Flowers and arrangements should be sent to the church at 725 Magdala Place, Apex, NC 27502. The family will receive family and friends after Mass, approximately 1:00, at the home of Steve and Martha Fitzhenry. 4917 Brambleridge Court, Holly Springs, NC. His final resting place will be at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Raleigh, NC in the Columbarium next to his beloved Lorraine.