Emma Malissa Sykes was born on August 5, 1928, to Ophelia and Freeman Sykes of Goldsboro (Wayne County), North Carolina. Emma was called home on May 29, 2023. Emma was educated in the Wayne County school system. Emma left Goldsboro, NC at an early age and relocated to New York City where she worked as a domestic employee. Thereafter she moved to Washington, DC where she resided until her death. Emma worked at Howard University for over 20 years where she worked as a custodian and retired in 2007. Emma joined Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Freddie Davis. She served in numerous church ministries and was a faithful member for over 45 years. Emma loved going to church, she was full of the Holy Spirit. She loved Pastor Davis, and she didn’t think anyone could preach like him. Emma loved her church family, and she loved studying the word of God. Emma loved to cook her favorite meals for her family. Emma loved to travel; her favorite trip was a trip that she had taken with the church to Jerusalem. Emma also loved to shop, she loved walking and exploring her city and community. Emma’s home was a place where her child, grandchildren, family members and friends gathered. She was the person that fed you and gave you a place to stay. She helped raise many children besides her own. Emma is preceded in death by her parents: Ophelia and Freeman Sykes late husband Charles Byrd, her siblings: Nancy Baker (James), Margaret Sykes, Larcenia Wimbley (Geneva), five brothers, Leeman Sykes, John Sykes, Willie Sykes, Nathaniel Sykes, and Freeman Sykes Jr., Emma leaves to cherish her memories, one son, Leondra Sykes (Mable), two grandchildren, Leondra Christopher Sykes, Cornelia Sykes Bennett (Cleve), along with six great grandchildren. Emma leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and cousins whom she loved dearly, along with other relatives, friends and church members who loved her greatly. She will truly be missed by all.
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