Stephen E. Cieplinski

He was born in Bethesda, MD in January ,1950, to his parents, Frances Cieplinski Blaisdell and Victor John Cieplinski. Stephen attended Nathan Bedford Forrest HS in Jacksonville, FL. Through a twist of fate, he received his BSE from Memphis State University, but he was known for his fanaticism for University of Florida where he earned most of his credits and where he learned to love rugby. He continued to play rugby throughout his life, first with the Jack Daniels’ team Memphis Old #7 and then with the Florida Old Boys Rugby Team.

Steve’s life centered around his family, football, teaching, and his flower garden. He was a teacher and football coach at Vanguard High School, West Port High School, St. John’s High School in Ocala and at Hawthorn High School.

Preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Nettie Jackson and Cindee O’Brien, Stephen is survived by his wife Martha Cieplinski, children Anne Cieplinski and Chris Jennings, grandchildren Dixie and Jacy Jennings, by his brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Janice Cieplinski and by nephew William, Ashley, and Eloise O’Brien; and niece, Debbie Jakes.

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 19, 2026 at 2 PM at First Love Church in Ocala, FL. Flowers will be gratefully accepted as a part of his Celebration because Steve loved them so much. If you prefer to leave a monetary remembrance, please consider a donation to the U.F.R.A.A., In care of Dennis Frisch, 1070 SW 19th Street, Boca Raton, FL 33486, a 501c3 organization.