Claudia S. O'Bosky

Claudia Setzler O'Bosky of Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on August 21, 1940, in Newberry, South Carolina, Claudia brought warmth and light to everyone she met, with a smile that could brighten any room. A gifted musician, Claudia earned her master's degree in music from Columbia University and trained as a professional opera singer. She began her teaching career in North Charleston, South Carolina, where she met her future husband, F. James O'Bosky. For over forty years, she shared her extraordinary talent as a soloist at churches throughout Bergen County and Montclair, New Jersey, touching countless lives with her beautiful voice. Claudia's unwavering love and commitment to her family were at the core of her existence. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of many years, Jim, who passed away on July 12, 2024, and her parents, Carl and Elizabeth Setzler. Claudia and Jim shared a beautiful and enduring partnership. Their love story was one for the ages, filled with mutual respect, admiration, and unwavering support. She is survived by her children: Mimi Steward (Charles), Jim O'Bosky, Jr. (Marta), Claudia Moore (John), and Caroline Viducich (Robert); her grandchildren: Gordon, James, and Benjamin Steward; James, Sophie, and Claudia O'Bosky; Elizabeth and Caroline Moore; and Charlotte Viducich; her sister, Elizabeth Willingham; and her brothers, Carl, Jr. and Charles Setzler. Her children remember her as a guiding light—a mother who led by example and encouraged them to pursue their dreams with the same fervor she pursued hers. Claudia was a pillar of strength, resilience, and love, and her wisdom will continue to guide her family for generations to come. Claudia's friends and colleagues knew her as a woman of great character, whose generosity of spirit shone brightly. Her laughter was infectious, her advice was sought after, and her presence was a comfort to all who knew her. She was a friend, a mentor, and an icon in her community—someone whose impact will be felt for many years to come. In addition to family and friends, she will be missed by her devoted aide, Cynthia, who loved and cared for her, "making a joyful noise unto the Lord." As we say goodbye to Claudia Setzler O'Bosky, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, marked by a profound love for her family, her art, and her community. Her memory will be cherished and honored, and her melodies will echo in the hearts of those she touched forever. The symphony of her influence will play on. Rest in peace, dear Claudia, and know that your song will never end.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 11 AM at Calvary Lutheran Church in Allendale, NJ. Interment will follow at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Carter-Glennon Arts Center and Nature Preserve (www.carter-glennon.org).

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