Sylvia Ellamae Smithers

Obituary May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14 Sylvia Ellamae Smithers was called home to glory while surrounded by family on Wednesday, June 7, 2023. She was born September 10, 1956, to the late Edward and Candace Garner in Mechanicsville, VA. Sylvia attended Mechanicsville High School, formerly Lee Davis High School in Hanover County, and was an alumnus of the Class of 1975. She received an associate degree from J. Sargent Reynolds in 1977. She acquired several State of Virginia certifications in criminal justice. She retired from the State of Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice, after 33 years of service. She also was a former member of CASA; a trained volunteer appointed by a judicial officer to provide advocacy for a child who is under the jurisdiction of the courts. Sylvia was a compassionate advocate for children, always willing to give a helping hand whenever needed. At an early age, she was baptized at the Greater Nazarene Baptist Church in Mechanicsville, VA., under the leadership of Rev. Elijah Hill. In 2016 she became a member of City Church under the leadership of Dr. Dimitri Bradley and currently Pastor Nicole Bradley. Sylvia loved the Lord and believed that the Lord loved her. Her faith was Trusting the Lord will all her heart and leaning not to her own understanding, but in all her ways acknowledging God, knowing that He would direct her path. To many she was compassionately known as "Syl", advocate for her family, a confidant, a friend, an advisor, a mediator, and a personal coach. She was an excellent "Listener ", she always had great feedback, and her analytical skills were respected. Her wisdom and knowledge, not to mention her gift of giving of herself could be witnessed not just with her family, but her friends, co-workers and anyone who would listen. She was a giant giver of herself, expressing the gift of "Grace" She touched the hearts of many friends, acquaintances, cousins; and most significantly, her brother, daughter, granddaughter, great -grandchildren, and nieces; they gave her great joy; affectionally calling her "Syl, Ma ,Nana, GG and Boobie" She was also known as Auntie Syl and Aunt Sylvia, a nurturer and protector. She leaves to cherish her memory and legacy, daughter, LaTricia Smithers; granddaughter,Shana Smithers-Ralph; greatgrandaughter, Aslahn and A'slin Avery;brother Edward GarnerI III;nieces Ashley Walton (Brandon); and Kristen Garner; nephews, Zarrod C. Garner and Brayden Walton; devoted freinds,Vanessa Grooms and Wesley Crews; work daughters, Tomika Hayden and Sherese Harrison-Kelly; and a host of other relatives and friends.

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Sylvia Ellamae Smithers

September 10, 1956 - June 7, 2023