Jane Vitali Scranton Pennsylvania Obituary, Death: It is with profound sorrow and deep love that we announce the passing of Jane Vitali, a cherished resident of Scranton, Pennsylvania, who passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 16, 2025, after a courageous and private battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 47 years old. At her side, holding her hand as she took her final breath, was her devoted fiancé, T.R. Riley, the man who stood beside her through the most challenging days of her journey.
Jane Vitali was the embodiment of quiet strength, fierce loyalty, and radiant kindness. She lived with grace, fought with dignity, and loved with her whole heart. Though she faced an unimaginable diagnosis, Jane chose to walk through her illness with fierce independence and steadfast courage, choosing not to share her pain widely—not to shield herself, but to protect others. As T.R. Riley shared, “She didn’t want all the sympathy. She wanted to fight the battle with just us.” Her decision was a reflection of her profound selflessness and her deeply rooted desire to spare her loved ones from worry.
Born and raised in Scranton, Jane brought light and laughter into every space she entered. She was known for her fiery red hair, her wit, and her unwavering loyalty to her friends and family. Those close to her often affectionately called her “Red,” a nickname that captured both her vibrant spirit and her signature style. She carried with her a natural charisma that made people feel seen, heard, and loved. Whether it was her co-workers, friends, or family, Jane had a way of making everyone feel like the most important person in the room.
To know Jane was to know loyalty. She was the kind of person who showed up, no matter the time or place. She was fiercely protective of the people she loved, and in turn, her loved ones were endlessly devoted to her. Her relationship with T.R. was one rooted in deep mutual respect, unwavering love, and joy. In recent years, their bond had grown even stronger, weathering the storm of illness with grace and closeness that few ever experience. T.R.’s tribute to Jane speaks volumes: “I’m broken… Her courage shone through.”
Jane loved the little things—freshly brewed coffee in the morning, long walks through Nay Aug Park, classic films, cooking Sunday dinners from scratch, and curling up with a good book. She found beauty in simplicity, and in turn, made life more beautiful for those lucky enough to walk beside her. She especially adored animals and was known to rescue stray cats and dogs, giving them shelter and love, as only she could.
Jane is survived by her beloved fiancé, T.R. Riley, who was her rock, her comfort, and her greatest love. She also leaves behind her parents, whose hearts are broken but filled with pride for the remarkable woman they raised; her brother and his wife, who admired Jane’s strength and sought her guidance; nieces and nephews who adored their Aunt Jane’s playful spirit; and a circle of friends who will never forget her honesty, her laughter, and her unwavering loyalty.
Jane’s legacy is one of quiet resilience and immense love. She didn’t need to shout her strength—she lived it every day. In her final months, she faced pain and fear, yet continued to comfort those around her, cracking jokes, offering wisdom, and expressing love even in her most difficult moments. Her journey was not easy, but it was dignified, and it was hers. There is an immeasurable void left in the lives of those who loved Jane, but also an unshakable gratitude for having known her. Her memory will live on in every act of kindness, in every burst of laughter, and in every person who dares to live with authenticity, bravery, and love.
A celebration of Jane’s life will be held privately with close friends and family, in accordance with her wishes. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or to a local animal shelter in Jane’s honor—two causes that meant the world to her. Jane Vitali, you were love. You were light. You were a fighter. You will be missed more than words can express. Rest now, beautiful Red—you are finally at peace.
