Stephen Pitts, Jr.

In the early morning hours of July 26, 2025, a beautiful beacon of light went out in this world. Stephen Pitts, Jr. passed away surrounded by love after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Stephen was born in Philadelphia, PA and was the son of the late Stephen Pitts, Sr. and Adelle Richards Pitts (nee Kemery).

Our beloved Stephen was a talented, brilliant, loving brother, friend, and son. Those who really knew Stephen know that he had received them with open arms and with deep and compassionate understanding; he met his loved ones where they were. In his life as a mindful and intentional person, Stephen made those dearest to him feel valued, heard and entirely loved.

Stephen was committed to helping others through his personal and professional life as a Clinical Social Worker. A brilliant musician and artist, Stephen utilized his talents throughout his lifetime playing piano in countless shows and concerts in high school, being a part of a band, composing music and using his musical talents as a DJ. In high school, he was known as “The Piano Man”, to whom the Billy Joel song was sung and dedicated to him during one of the concerts. You could find Stephen listening to a wide variety of music at any given time from disco to yacht rock. He loved sharing his love of music and a “good groove” with all he met. His energy and aura were unmistakable. His most cherished times were those where he was able to enjoy a disco dance party in NYC with his friends. He was also a very talented artist with both drawing and painting. His sister, Laura, has many of his paintings and cherishes them.

Stephen enjoyed spending time with those he cherished most. For those that loved him, this feeling was wholeheartedly mutual. He enjoyed annual holiday trips to Hershey with his family, trips to Ocean City, NJ and the annual tradition of watching the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade with his sister, Laura. Stephen enjoyed cooking and creating new, adventurous recipes with flavors from all around the world, which he greatly enjoyed sharing with his loved ones. When he made food, he took great care whether it be elaborate, a simple PB&J, or a hot tea. Always thoughtful, he always made a concerted effort to the preference of the person for whom he was cooking. He greatly enjoyed drawing with his niece, Amanda, as well as spending time with her doing whatever she enjoyed at the moment.

Stephen was a fierce protector and advocate of those he loved and always stood up for what was right, even when it was difficult. Stephen was an ethical vegetarian then vegan for most of his life and had a deep and lasting love for all animals. He did have a special place in his heart for Peeper and Daniel, the two cats most dearest to him. An avid activist throughout his life, he stood up for LGBTQ+, civil, and women's rights. He spent many years demonstrating and providing volunteer time to promote justice, equality and fairness for marginalized and vulnerable people. He devoted his time to volunteer work through his social work and mental health counseling with many organizations such as Action AIDS Philadelphia.

Stephen is survived by his devoted and loving sister, Laura Jeane Smith and his adoring niece, Amanda Adelle, with whom he shared a very special bond. He is also survived by his chosen family who he held so dearly: Christopher Cook, Liz Figueroa-Wilkes, Yael Worob, Michael and Angela McGuffin, Sheila Jamison, and Ellen Tracy.

The world without Stephen will be forever changed, especially for those that felt his divine and accepting love, who deeply feel this profound loss. Known as a “compass” by many of his friends and loved ones, he will be missed beyond measure.

In accordance with Stephen’s values, his interment and service of remembrance will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to StandUp2Cancer, Action Wellness, The Trevor Project, Move On, Here Kitty Kitty Cat Rescue, ACLU, or a philanthropic charity of your choice.