Melissa Stefanski

Melissa Stefanski
Melissa A. Stefanski, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025, in Maywood. Born on June 6, 1982, Melissa's life was a testament to the love and joy she brought to everyone around her.
Melissa's journey began in the loving arms of her parents, Dennis and Diane (VanDuyne) Flynn. She grew up surrounded by the affection of her siblings Kelly (Joseph) Wilda, Kevin (Lauren) Flynn, and Megan Flynn, and the playful antics of her nieces and nephews Luke, Charlie, and Noelle. Her maternal grandmother, Marlene VanDuyne, along with her uncles Jack (Shawn) Flynn, Terry (Carol) Flynn, and Joseph (Marlene) VanDuyne, also played significant roles in her life. While she was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Eugene VanDuyne, and paternal grandparents, Jack and Joyce Flynn, their values and love live on through her.
A proud graduate of Minooka High School's class of 2000, Melissa's thirst for knowledge and personal growth led her to Illinois State University and later to Cosmetology School.
In 2005, Melissa married her soulmate, Justin Stefanski, and their love blossomed into a beautiful family with the birth of their children, James Flynn, Vivienne Grace, and Nell Francis Stefanski. Melissa and Justin raised their children in Morris, where Melissa also nurtured her entrepreneurial spirit by running her own hair styling business from home. Her clients were not just customers but friends, and her home-based salon was a place of laughter, advice, and support.
Melissa was an active member of First Christian Church in Morris, where she joyfully ran the nursery. Her dedication to the church and its youngest members was a clear reflection of her nurturing soul and unwavering faith.
Melissa's family invites those who knew her to join in remembering a life beautifully lived.
A memorial gathering for Melissa will be held on Sunday, September 28, 2025, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the First Christian Church located at 455 W. Southmor Rd in Morris. A celebration of Melissa's life will follow at 4:00 pm. Cremation rites will be accorded.
An online guestbook has been made for the family, where you may sign the guestbook, share memories and photographs. You can access this by visiting the website at www.ucdaviscallahan.com. Arrangements have been entrusted with U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris, IL.