Stephen "Steve" Cartwright

On September 13, 2026, Stephen “Steve” Cartwright peacefully went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was a man of deep, abiding faith and his family finds great comfort in knowing that he is now in Heaven, whole and at peace in the presence of the Savior he trusted throughout his life.

Born June 11, 1952, to Jerry and Margaret Cartwright, Steve grew up in Ohio and graduated from West Carrollton High School. It was during those early years—even before high school—that he first met the girl who would become the love of his life, Carolyn. They met in grade school, beginning a story that would eventually lead to marriage and 48 years spent side by side. Together, they built a life and a family that meant everything to Steve.

Following high school, Steve proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and the Air National Guard, serving for six years. He went on to build a meaningful career in industrial sales before eventually taking the leap to start his own successful business. Later in life, Steve found another calling in real estate and private lending, where he became a trusted friend and mentor to many. He generously shared his knowledge and experience, helping countless others along the way.

That generosity was simply part of who Steve was. He was kind, giving, and always willing to offer his time, his help, or a piece of hard-earned wisdom. Whatever Steve took on, he gave it everything he had—but his success was never just about what he accomplished for himself. He found great meaning in helping others succeed, too.

And Steve loved to laugh. He had a quick wit and a wonderfully sarcastic sense of humor. Those who knew him knew that his sarcasm was part of his charm, and you could always count on Steve for a well-timed comment or a good laugh. His humor—and the laughter that so often came with him—will be deeply missed.

For all his drive, Steve also knew where he was happiest: near the water. He loved the beach, the ocean, and especially vacations to Florida with his wife, Carol. After 48 years of marriage, some of his happiest moments were still the simplest ones—being near the water and spending time with the woman he loved.

Above all, Steve was a devoted husband, father, and man of faith. His belief in Jesus Christ was not simply something he professed; it was something he carried with him throughout his life. His family will miss his presence, his wisdom, his laughter, and his love more than words can express, but they grieve with the assurance that this goodbye is not forever.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Carol Cartwright; daughters, Stephanie (Jake) Zimmer and Christina (Rob) Cherry; sisters-in-law, Theresa (Jerry) Yoder, Susan (Tom) Schmidt, and Janet (Gordon) Brown; along with extended family and friends who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Cartwright; mother, Margaret Cartwright; sister, Sharon Kendig; father-in-law, William “Bill” Ward; and mother-in-law, Dorothy Ward.

Steve’s was a life defined by faith, hard work, generosity, devotion, laughter, and love for his family. Those who loved him would have given anything for more time, but they find peace in knowing that Steve is now free from pain and in the presence of the Savior he loves. On September 13, he wasn’t simply leaving this life. He was going home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Steve’s memory to Life Connection of Ohio at https://www.lifeconnection.org/charitable-contributions . As an organ transplant recipient, Steve was given the extraordinary gift of more time—a gift that allowed him to share more years, more laughter, and more memories with the people he loved. Supporting organ donation in his memory is a meaningful way to honor both Steve’s life and the gift of life he received.

A visitation for Steve will take place on Thursday, September 24, 2026 from 5:00PM to 7:00 PM at Tobias Funeral Home Far Hills Chapel, 5471 Far Hills Ave., Dayton, OH 45429. A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026 at 11:00 AM also at Tobias Far Hills, with a burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery, 1625 Calvary Ave., Dayton, OH, 45409.