Steven John Quarella, 68, of Fernandina Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, at Community Hospice after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by loved ones.

Born October 22, 1957, in Fitchburg, MA, Steve was the son of the late Alphonse and Pauline (LeBlanc) Quarella. He was the beloved husband and best friend of Suzie Merino, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and laughter. Steve was a dedicated brother to Michael (Mary) Quarella of Sandwich, MA, Joseph (Kristin) Quarella of New Seabury, MA, and Dan (Tracy) Quarella of North Kingstown, RI. He was the proud father of Anthony (Victoria) Quarella of Massapequa, NY, and Candice (Christian) Quarella of Boston, MA. He was also a loving stepfather to Basilio (Ashley) Merino and Christie (Cayce) Merino-Jones. Affectionately known as “Papa Q,” Steve adored his grandsons, James and Leo Quarella, and his step-grandson, Marshall. He also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.

Steve graduated from St. Bernard’s High School, Class of 1975, and later in life went on to receive his bachelor’s degree at the University of Connecticut. Shortly after graduation, in March of 1980, he began a long and storied career of 44 years with Snap-on Credit. He took on roles of increasing responsibility, with the last 20 years as the Director of Business Development and Marketing. Steve was committed to his craft while helping to support associates and franchisees across the world. He had a special gift of gab and was well known for his strong presentation skills (the “Godfather of presentations”) while selling all the financing programs of Snap-on Credit.

Steve lived his life to the fullest, and his passions ran deep. A brilliant and generous Italian cook, he loved hosting family and friends for homemade meals. Anyone invited to dinner was expected to help make fresh pasta. His Nonna’s sauce simmered in the background while his tiramisu cooled in the fridge, all typically followed by a glass of Amaro Montenegro, affectionately known as “Papa Juice.”

An accomplished golfer, Steve got his start as a young caddie at Oak Hill Country Club and carried that love of the game his whole life. Beyond his skill, he was known for his sportsmanship on the course – which was simply unmatched – along with a kind, competitive spirit and uncanny ability to win, even up to the last weeks of his life. He chased his dream of retiring on a golf course and found it at his North Hampton home – where one of his great joys was picking up the cooler Suzie left on their fence along the 4th fairway.

Music was another lifelong love. Steve was delighted to play his baby grand piano and sing his favorite songs to anyone who happened to be around. As a talented songwriter and composer, he created the Christian rock band Spirit Wind in the 1970s. He was also a devoted fan of the New England Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics, and UConn football and men’s basketball teams – and, at Suzie’s loving persistence, became a genuine fan of the WNBA.

Above all, Steve will be remembered for his charisma, his unwavering sense of humor, and his ability to make anyone laugh. He treasured his family, especially Tony, Candice, and his grandchildren, and took enormous pride and joy in being “Papa Q.” He is also fondly remembered by the many friends he called his “brothers” who stood by him through his battle with cancer – especially Ron Jensen (Patty), Tim Daugherty, Owen Murphy, Jack Kania, Neal Akers, George Leonard, and Paul Best, along with many other golf buddies from the North Hampton community. Steve’s beloved Aussiechon, Shady, misses her daddy immensely.
Steve’s laughter, warmth, and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

A memorial service will be held at Oxley-Heard Funeral Home in Fernandina Beach, FL, on Friday, August 28th at 2pm with visitation at 1pm. Rather than flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.