Stephen M. Slater

Stephen M. Slater, 68, formerly of Johnson City, passed away on December 15, 2025. He was born to Clarence Slater and June Brazee on July 23, 1957. He served his country honorably in the US Army from 1975-1983. Upon his discharge, Steve returned to New York with his wife, Laura (Cowley) Slater and together they raised four children who survive, Jennifer (Neil) Robinson, of Chittenango NY, Stephen “SJ” (Stacy) Slater, of Ocala, FL, Amanda Slater, of Ocala, FL, and Matthew (Jamie) Slater, of Dayton, NV; he’s also survived by his grandchildren, Zachary (Cassidy Cavanagh) Sanborn, Alexander (Erin Kolceski) Sanborn, Miranda (Jake) Jones, Dylan Slater, Collin (Ashley) Slater, Marissa (Paul Bamister) Santavicca, Serena (Kevin) DePriest, Anthony Santavicca, Liam Slater, Damian Slater, Ezekiel Slater, Bentlee Slater, and Kinslee Slater; seven great grandchildren; and his siblings, Josephine, Mildred “Mickey”, Berna, James, Elaine (Joe), Wilson (Chris), Barbara, Raymond (Betty), and Marjorie (Jerry). Sister in law Laurie. Steve was predeceased by his parents, his wife of 39 years, Laura; and his brothers, Clarence “Sonny”, Lawrence, Eugene, and Jeffrey.

Steve made his living as a manager/director of facilities at various places including Oneida City Hospital and Service Master, UHS Binghamton General Hospital with Service Master and Aramark, UHS Senior Living Facility with Ideal and Mercy College with Ideal at Dobbs Ferry, the Bronx and Manhattan. Steve was admired for his leadership. He valued and invested in others. He would never ask someone to do a job that he himself wouldn't do. He believed in leading by example. Years later he was remembered by all who worked for him as being their "best boss" along with his big smile & open, kind heart. Steve loved to use his hands & imagination to make beautiful creations out of wood. He enjoyed doing craft shows showcasing his ingenuity, particularly carousels. He could talk freely to anyone he met and had a way of putting people at ease. He loved to laugh, camp and play his guitar on his front porch, in the garage & often for the enjoyment of others. He had an amazing singing voice. In his later years he played at parties & senior homes. He played oldies, gospel, country and pretty much anything that he knew would brighten someone else's day.

Steve loved celebrating holidays. He decorated above & beyond for most holidays, especially Halloween and Christmas. His wonderful displays, both indoors and outdoors, brought holiday magic to life! Steve always strived to make the best life he could for his family. He treasured time with his whole family, including all his brothers and sisters. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Tunnels to Tower Foundation at t2t.org.

A funeral service for Steve will take place at 1:00pm on Sunday, December 21, at R.J. Fahy Funeral Home, 116 N. Broad St. Norwich. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 11:00am until the time of service. At the families request, to celebrate Steve's love of Christmas, please wear your favorite Christmas sweater, outfit or holiday colors. Burial will take place in the spring at Plymouth Southside Cemetery, Old County Rd 16 Plymouth, NY