Steve Uliss, Owner of Fireflys BBQ in Marlborough Unexpectedly Dies

Steve Uliss, the owner and operator of the BBQ restaurant Firefly’s in Marlborough, Massachusetts, has died.

Uliss’ death occurred unexpectedly on Friday, November 22nd, 2024, close friends announced. No cause of death was given.

“I’m not ok…my boss, friend, mentor, Steve Uliss passed away this morning. My life has been turned upside down [and] I’m in shock. I pray for his family whom I love dearly. I’m so sorry my most heartfelt loving condolences,” Marisa Gaines shared on social media.

Uliss was born and bred in Boston but found his way to Marlborough to fulfil his life’s dream. He studied culinary arts at the Massachusetts vocational high school and started work at 16, working as a cook in a local chain of high-volume restaurants.

He gained admission into the highly coveted “Eight-Week Wonder” program for talented young chefs, and subsequently went on to complete his degree at the University in Providence, Rhode Island.

He went back to Barnsider after college and rose through the ranks, eventually being named bar manager. He left to join the Northeast Motel Group (later renamed the Peabody Hotel Group) and while working there, met and fell in love with Amy Wieder, a catering manager for the company. The couple welcomed two children, daughters Carly and Rachel who have also been instrumental in running the business.

READ ALSO: Sean Jordan, Man Arrested Over Wrong-Way Accident and Shooting in Southlake

He founded Firefly’s BBQ in Marlborough in 2001 with the help of his wife Amy and other family members. The restaurant has grown into one of the best in the region, serving in addition to Barbecue, several Southern specialties and comfort food including fried chicken, po’ boys, jambalaya, red beans and rice and sweet potato pecan pudding.

Uliss also opened an adjoining nightclub to Firefly’s, Dante’s. Firefly’s was closed Friday in his honor.

“Steve was the epitome of a human being and a fantastic business man,” a customer said in a message shared to social media. “May his memory be a blessing to all that knew him. My most sincere condolences to his family.”