A beloved resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Jaclyn “Jacci” Marie Stephan, has sadly passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. She was 47 years old. Jacci’s untimely death, following a brief and private health battle, has left her family, friends, and coworkers in a state of profound sorrow and disbelief.
Jacci was a cherished mother, a talented artist, and a kind-hearted colleague. Born on July 8, 1978, in Pittsburgh, she was the daughter of Edward and Linda (nee: Ricciardi) Wasko. She was a graduate of the Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts School, where her artistic talents first flourished. She later went on to build a career at Quantum Cleaning & Maintenance, where she was not just an employee but a beloved part of the team, known for her strong work ethic and dedication.
The center of Jacci’s world was her beloved daughter, Krysta Bywaters. The love she held for Krysta was evident in every part of her life, and she shared her passions for books, movies, music, and art with her, creating a bond rooted in creativity, curiosity, and unconditional love. Her family described her as a dedicated mother whose greatest joy came from being with Krysta and supporting her in all her endeavors.
Jacci was a beloved artist and creative spirit with an incredible talent for drawing and a keen eye for photography. She was a driven person who took great pride and satisfaction in “a job well done”. A proud Pittsburgh Steelers fan, she enjoyed cheering on her team and sharing that excitement with others. She also loved bringing people together through her cooking—especially her grilling—which became a way for her to create joy, connection, and lasting memories for friends and family.
She is survived by her daughter, Krysta (Brady Russell) Bywaters; her parents, Ed and Linda Wasko; her brother, Ed Stephan; and her aunt, Julie Kraus. The family has shared that there will be no formal funeral services at this time, in accordance with Jacci’s own wishes for simplicity. They invite all who loved Jaclyn to join them in a celebration of life at a later date to be announced, where they can gather to share stories and honor her vibrant spirit.
Friends and family are leaving messages of condolence on a memorial tribute wall, describing Jacci as a bright light, a fiercely loyal friend, and a source of constant inspiration. Her creativity, warmth, and loving nature will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.