Jaclyn M. Cook

Jaclyn M. Cook, 42, of Upper Chichester, PA, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 3, 2024. Jaclyn was a vibrant, bubbly soul who embraced life with courage and resilience. Most of her life was spent in Upper Chichester, where she graduated with the Class of 2000. She had recently moved to Lansdowne, PA, where she was dedicated to her work as a manager at a local recovery center, helping others find their footing and guiding them toward brighter futures.
Jaclyn's presence could light up any room. She had two distinctive laughs that everyone loved a more subtle, endearing snort that would slip out in quieter moments. But when you really got her laughing, it was the full, booming "AAAPPP" scream that filled the room and lifted everyone's spirits. Though "J Cookie" wasn't a nickname she went by, it became an inside joke as her quirky email handle, perfectly capturing her playful spirit and always bringing a grin to friends and family. Known for her sense of humor, Jaclyn often laughed about her legendary line, "I got ya weave!"-a joke from a long-ago story that never failed to get everyone laughing along with her.
Jaclyn's family was her greatest joy and source of pride. Her children, Ryan Weems-Johnson and Brianna Bailey, were the center of her world, and she filled their lives with love, laughter, and unwavering support. She treasured quiet weekends with Brianna, where they would catch up on life and watch movies together, a simple tradition that brought them both comfort and connection. Jaclyn loved cheering on Ryan at his sports games, always his biggest, and often loudest, fan on the sidelines. Summers were spent around the pool in the backyard, surrounded by children, family, and friends, and each year included cherished trips to Ocean City, New Jersey, creating memories that would last a lifetime and filling her heart with joy and togetherness.
She is also survived by her devoted parents, Bill and Judy Speed-Cook, who were her unwavering foundation. Eric Speed, her brother and friend she could always laugh with and lean on. She treasured her connection with her sister, Diana Smyth, who brought warmth and understanding to her life. Jaclyn also shared a sisterly bond with her niece, Marisa Speed, and the two were known for their endless laughter and support for one another. She also leaves behind Ryan Bailey, Brianna's father, with whom she shared the journey of raising a beautiful daughter.
Jaclyn was predeceased by her beloved older brother, David Speed Jr. whose memory she held close to her heart, cherishing the good times they shared. Her extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews also meant the world to her; she valued each relationship deeply and found joy in the love and closeness of her family.
Jaclyn's life held its share of ups and downs, which taught her deep empathy and the value of resilience. She turned her own experiences into a source of strength, using them to help others find their way forward. Her family and friends will remember her for her boundless love, her joyful laughter, and the light she brought into their lives.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, November 13, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Pagano Funeral Home, 3711 Foulk Rd., Garnet Valley, PA, followed by a Funeral Liturgy at 12 p.m. Jaclyn will be laid to rest at Lawn Croft Cemetery in Linwood, PA. Family and friends are invited to join for a luncheon following the services.
In honor of Jaclyn's legacy of kindness and resilience, her family invites you to share condolences and memories at www.paganofuneralhome.com. May her spirit live on in the laughter, strength, and compassion of those she touched.