Dr. Steven Secunda

Dr. Steven K. Secunda, Renowned Psychiatrist and Beloved Family Man, Dies at 84 Palm Beach Gardens, Florida — Dr. Steven K. Secunda, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, physician, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on July 25, 2025, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Known for his warmth, wit, intellect, and consummate professionalism, he was a man of many passions—early bird tennis with his best buddies, classical music, science fiction, and, in his own inimitable words, “a gourmand, not a gourmet.” He embraced life with joy and loved nothing more than sharing that joy with others.

Steve was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on December 5, 1940, to Lazarus and Pauline Secunda. From an early age, he exhibited a keen intellect, a deep compassion for others, and a love of learning that would guide his life's work. 

Dr. Secunda graduated from Harvard College, earned his medical degree from Cornell Medical School, and completed his psychiatric residency at the University of Pennsylvania.

He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 56 years, Lynne Godick Secunda; his children, Lorin Fine (Robert Fine) of Chappaqua, New York, and Paul Secunda (Sandra Deshur) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; his five adored grandchildren—Jason, Jake, Zach, Izzy, and Alex— who brought him endless pride and happiness; and his loving siblings, Karen Levy (the late George Levy) and Jeff and Leah Secunda. To his family, Steve was a source of strength, laughter, and unconditional love.

Professionally, Dr. Secunda was a pioneering figure in the field of psychiatry. Practicing for fifty years in Springfield, Pennsylvania, he was instrumental in advancing the understanding and treatment of bipolar disorder and contributed significantly to the clinical use of lithium and SSRIs. His work helped shape modern psychiatric care, including serving as a contributing researcher to longitudinal studies at the National Institute of Mental Health throughout his lifetime, co-authoring numerous papers, books, and articles.

Steve will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking work, but for the kindness, humor, and humanity he brought to every interaction. Whether in the office, on the tennis court, around the dinner table, or simply chatting about a favorite book or film, he made others feel heard, understood, and valued.

The funeral will take place on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Congregation Ohev Shalom in Wallingford, Pennsylvania, after which shiva will be held at the home of Carole and Bruce Bogdanoff. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation in honor of Dr. Secunda’s life, legacy, and enduring commitment to others.

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