Obituary - Stephen Jay Bittman

Stephen Bittman, 73, of Glen Allen, VA, formerly of Binghamton, NY, passed away on Sunday, August, 6, 2023, after a brief illness. Stephen was born on January 23, 1950, in Binghamton, NY. Stephen was predeceased by his mother and father, Helen Pitler Bittman, and Edward Bittman and brother-in-law, Edward Carroll. They will always remain in our hearts. He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Nancy (Becker), cherished daughter Lonni (Andrew) Rosenthal and adored son, Brian (Kyla) Bittman, sister Judith Carroll, uncle Lawrence Pitler, and the lights of his life, grandchildren Brody and Tessa Rosenthal.

Stephen graduated Binghamton HS in 1968. He then went on to study at Syracuse University, graduating in 1972. In his junior year, he lived in Florence, Italy, for 6 months, a city and lifestyle he fell in love with. He and Nancy traveled to Italy several times, most recently a few weeks before his passing.

Stephen was set up on a blind date with Nancy by a family member in 1972. Their loving relationship led to 25 years of working side by side at Rinker’s Jewelers, over 49 years of marriage and 2 wonderful children, Lonni & Brian.

Stephen was a longtime member of Vestal Hills Country Club, where he got his start in sales by selling $0.25 sodas on the 9th hole. He had a few jobs before going into the growing family business, Rinker’s Jewelers, in 1975. After 90 years in business, Rinker’s closed its doors in 2006. At that time, Nancy and Stephen opened a new chapter in Richmond, VA. Together, they ran a local magazine and Stephen continued his passion in jewelry by working with Diamonds Direct for 10 years.

Stephen was extremely proud of his maternal grandfather, Jake Pitler who was a 1st base coach for the Brooklyn Dodgers. He was the coach in the winning season of 1955. Stephen was a loving husband, doting father, uncle, grandfather, and loyal friend to many, including family members, colleagues and golf buddies. His ability to “work the room” and make people laugh will stay with us forever.

Shiva/Calling hours will be on Wednesday, August, 9, from 1-7pm at Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N. Parham Rd, Richmond VA. Additional hours will be on Sunday, August 13, 12-5pm, in Florida at the home of Lonni & Andrew Rosenthal, 17357 Rainstream Rd, Boca Raton FL.