Dr. Edward J. Stepka Jr.

Dr. Edward John Stepka Jr., of West Warwick, RI, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on New Year's Day in 1949, Ed greeted life with a spirit of joy and generosity that never dimmed.
He was the beloved husband of Carolyn (Kostyla) Stepka, with whom he shared nearly 53 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, family traditions, and 37 unforgettable cruises across the world-from Paris to the Caribbean.
Ed was a devoted father to Greg Stepka (Joanna Douglas) and Bethanie Parenteau (Michael Izzo), a loving brother to Marianne Bednarz (Wictor), and the proudest Papa to his cherished grandchildren: Alison and Matthew Parenteau, and Jackson and Sidney Stepka. Whether cheering from the sidelines at a hockey rink or lacrosse field, applauding a cheer routine, or talking baseball stats, he found endless joy in his grandchildren's lives and accomplishments.
A devoted dentist based in North Smithfield, RI, Ed began serving his community with compassion and dedication in 1973, following his graduation from the New Jersey College of Medicine and Dentistry. He continued practicing alongside his son, until retiring in 2018. Dr Ed was a Past President of the Woonsocket District Dental Society and also served as a Trustee for the Rhode Island Dental Association. Ed's professional achievements were complemented by his kind heart and gentle demeanor.
Ed was a proud graduate of La Salle Academy and Providence College, where he developed a lifelong love of Friar basketball. He held season tickets since 1980 and rarely missed a game, even while traveling the world.
Faith was central to Ed's life. He was an active member of Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish in Coventry, where his roots ran deep. In quieter moments, he enjoyed reading, golfing, and planning his next adventure with Carolyn by his side.
Ed will be remembered for his steadfast love, quiet humor, unshakable loyalty, and the legacy of kindness he leaves behind in everyone who knew him.
His funeral will be held on Monday June 2, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. in the Carpenter Jenks Funeral Home, 659 East Greenwich Avenue, West Warwick, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, 445 Washington Street, Coventry. Visitation will be held on Sunday June 1, 2025 from 4-7pm. The burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Coventry.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rhode Island Dental Association Fund at the Rhode Island Foundation in his memory.