Tribute to Musician and Educator Claudia Setzler O’Bosky

Allendale, NJ, October 16, 2025

News Summary

Claudia Setzler O’Bosky, a cherished musician and educator, passed away peacefully at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with music and family. Known for her dedication and warmth, Claudia had a profound impact on her community through her teaching and numerous performances as a soloist in various churches. She is remembered by her family and friends for her strength and the positive influence she had throughout her life.

Allendale, NJ – Claudia Setzler O’Bosky, a beloved musician and educator known for her warmth and dedication, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, at the age of 85. She was surrounded by her loved ones at the time of her death, leaving behind a legacy rich in music and family.

Born on August 21, 1940, in Newberry, South Carolina, Claudia’s passion for music led her to earn a master’s degree in music from Columbia University. She trained as a professional opera singer, which set the foundation for a remarkable career in the arts. Claudia began her teaching career in North Charleston, South Carolina, where she quickly made an impact on her students and colleagues alike.

It was during her teaching career that Claudia met F. James O’Bosky, who became her loving husband. The couple shared a strong bond and a passion for music, with Claudia serving as a soloist at various churches throughout Bergen County and Montclair, New Jersey, for over forty years. Her performances were marked by elegance and emotion, endearing her to many in the community.

Family was central to Claudia’s life. She was a dedicated mother to her children: Mimi Steward (Charles), Jim O’Bosky Jr. (Marta), Claudia Moore (John), and Caroline Viducich (Robert), all of whom remember her as a guiding light who encouraged them to pursue their dreams. Claudia was also preceded in death by her husband Jim, who passed away on July 12, 2024. She is survived by multiple grandchildren: Gordon, James, Benjamin Steward; James, Sophie, Claudia O’Bosky; Elizabeth, Caroline Moore; and Charlotte Viducich, as well as her sister, Elizabeth Willingham, and two brothers, Carl, Jr. and Charles Setzler.

Throughout her life, Claudia was characterized as a pillar of strength, resilience, and wisdom. Her friends and colleagues loved and respected her as a woman of great character and generosity. Claudia will be deeply missed by her devoted aide, Cynthia, and many others in the community who felt her positive impact. The essence of her spirit continues to inspire those who knew her.

A funeral service to honor Claudia Setzler O’Bosky is scheduled for Friday, October 24, 2025, at 11 AM at Calvary Lutheran Church in Allendale, NJ. Following the service, interment will occur at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Carter-Glennon Arts Center and Nature Preserve, an organization that reflects Claudia’s commitment to the arts and education.

Key Facts about Claudia Setzler O’Bosky

• Passed away on October 13, 2025.
• Born on August 21, 1940, in Newberry, South Carolina.
• Earned a master’s degree in music from Columbia University.
• Served as a soloist at churches in Bergen County and Montclair for over forty years.
• Survived by four children and multiple grandchildren.

Background Information

Claudia Setzler O’Bosky’s journey in music education made her a respected figure in her community. Her commitment to teaching and nurturing the next generation of musicians has left a lasting impact. The values she instilled in her family and students are a testament to her legacy, which will continue to resonate in the hearts of many.

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• Van Emburgh-Sneider: James Callaghan
• Wikipedia: Obituary
• Legacy.com: Helen Scherreik
• Google Search: Helen Scherreik
• NJ Obituaries: Walter Travers
• Google Scholar: Walter Travers
• Dignity Memorial: Robert May
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Robert May
• V.F. P. H.: Joan Fitzpatrick
• Google News: Joan Fitzpatrick
• Van Emburgh-Sneider: Jeannine Floyd
• Google Search: Jeannine Floyd

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