Obituary: Steven Gaffney, 41, Of Fairfield

Information via family and friends of Steven Gaffney

Steven (Steve) Gaffney, 41, of Fairfield, passed away on Nov. 29, 2019, leaving behind his beloved fiancé and life partner, Brittany Simonis, and his stepson, Jackson.

Steve was born and raised in Brooklyn. Steve attended St. Mary's School and Oak Hill Academy, Christian Brothers Academy and Fairfield University, from which he graduated in 2000 with a degree in accounting and finance. While attending the university, Steve fell in love with the town and decided to make Fairfield his home.

Steve enjoyed a successful career in accounting and finance and most recently served as vice president/comptroller for Eastern Computer Exchange in Westport. Colleagues remember him for his quick wit, infectious smile, and laugh that filled the office with joy. During his short tenure with Eastern Computer Exchange, Steve’s skill and work ethic were clearly evident and helped to further drive successes at the company.

Steve loved life and was the life of every party. Steve enjoyed all sports and was proud of his many athletic accomplishments, most importantly, being named MVP of his youth basketball team, which competed and won international tournaments. Steve had a true comedic presence and brought such joy to the game that his coach nicknamed him “Harpo” during his “Mr. Biddy” award-winning basketball days. He furthered his athletic successes on the soccer field while at Fairfield University. His speed and energy were captivating to watch while devastating to his opponents.

One could often find Steve enjoying the sun and beauty of the Fairfield beaches on summer days or enjoying a round of golf with buddies on any available course. However, Steve’s truest loves were, and remain, Brittany and Jackson. One only had to spend an evening in the company of Steve and Brittany to understand the depth of his love for her and Jackson. Steve was devoted to his family and worked to provide them with a loving home, filled with laughter and joy. He loved imparting his athletic passion and skill to Jackson and they could often be found throwing, shooting, swinging or kicking the ball together. Steve brought that same fun-loving energy to his nieces and Jackson’s friends, many of whom refer to him as “Uncle Steve.” Although Steve is no longer with us in body, he will forever be with Brittany, Jackson and all of his friends and family in spirit and heart.

Steve is also survived by his mother, Carol, and her boyfriend, Randy; his father, Donald; brother and sister-in-law, Greg and Sharon; nieces Sienna and Olivia, and many loving aunts, uncles and cousins.

Friends and family are invited to join Brittany and Jackson in honoring Steve’s life on Wednesday, Dec. 11. A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held 7 p.m. in the Gathering Room at the Black Rock Church, 3685 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield.