Jaclyn Marie Brundza, lovingly known as “Jackie,” passed away very unexpectedly on October 13, 2026, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. She was born on August 24, 1982, in West Islip, New York. Her passing leaves an immeasurable space in the lives of all who knew and loved her.

Jaclyn was, above all else, a loving mother, a devoted wife, and the kind of person who made everyone around her feel welcome. She was feisty, caring, generous, protective, relentless, selfless, and loyal. She had a heart of gold, was a friend to everyone, and brought energy and laughter wherever she went. Known as the life of the party, Jaclyn had a big personality and an unforgettable presence. She was wonderfully outspoken, could never keep a secret, and carried herself with a humor that those closest to her understood and cherished. More than anything, she was someone people could count on, a woman who was always ready to love fiercely and stand up for those she held dear.

Her proudest accomplishments were the birth of her children and the joy she found in her grandpuppy, Kilo. Being a mom was at the center of who she was, and she was not only a mother to her own family but also “a mom to everyone.” She built her life around caring for others, including her years as a stay-at-home mom, a role she embraced with deep love and dedication.

Jaclyn also gave generously of her time to her community. She was a devoted volunteer with Honor Flight of South Florida, serving in honor of her father. She was the president of the Florida Panthers Figure Skating Club and also served as a former president of the PTA. In each of these roles, she brought the same passion, commitment, and larger-than-life spirit that defined her in every part of life.

She found joy in so many things that reflected her lively nature. She loved watching the Florida Panthers, shopping, talking on the phone, volunteering, gambling, and spending time with her family. She had also been a baton twirler, a detail that feels fitting for someone who moved through life with such spark and flair. Christmas was her favorite holiday, and it is easy to imagine how fully she embraced the warmth, celebration, and togetherness of the season.

Jaclyn is survived by her beloved husband, Aaron Brundza. She also leaves behind her mother, Mary McCarthy; her sister, Stephanie McCarthy, who was truly her “100%,” and Stephanie’s husband, Andrew Ragan; her daughters, Victoria Brundza and Abigail Brundza; her son-in-law, Jeffrey Schinagl, Victoria’s husband; her stepdaughter, Kaylyn Brundza, mother of Aspen; and her stepson, Bryan Brundza. Each of them carries forward the love, laughter, strength, and fierce devotion that Jaclyn gave so freely.

She was preceded in death by her father, Patrick McCarthy, whose memory remained close to her heart and in whose honor she gave her time to Honor Flight of South Florida.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on October 19, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at T. M. Ralph Plantation Funeral Home, 7001 NW 4th St, Plantation, FL 33317. A Mass will be held on October 20, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Saint David Catholic Church, 3900 S University Dr, Davie, FL 33328. Interment will follow on October 20, 2026, from 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Cemetery, 1500 S State Rd 7, North Lauderdale, FL 33068.

Jaclyn will be remembered for the way she loved: boldly, loudly, loyally, and without hesitation. Her family was her world, her friends were many, and her presence was one that cannot be replaced. May her memory bring comfort to all who were blessed to know her, and may the love she gave so freely continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.