Vera Jean Sylestine, age 55, passed away on March 27, 2026.
Born on October 27, 1970, Jean lived a life defined by love, faith, and selfless devotion to her family and community.
She leaves behind her husband, Stacy Davis, and children, Lacy Brown (Kaleb), Patrick Sylestine (Jenni), Madeline Sylestine, Paige Littlefield (Trent), and Takoma Sylestine, her mother, Barbara Gardner, and brothers Darren(Amanda) and Daniel Gardner. Her greatest joy in life was being a mother and grandmother. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren—Lexi, Easton, Treyce, Koko, Connor, Talyn, Ramsey, Lincoln, Kimber Layne, and Shiloh Claire—each of whom she loved deeply and unconditionally. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart.
Jean was preceded in death by her beloved son, Michael Sylestine; her father, James Gardner; her grandmother, Lila Lee Hester; and her uncle, Preston Gardner.
In her younger years, Jean served her community as an EMT, a role that reflected her caring and courageous spirit. Later, she spent many days as a substitute teacher at Vincent, where she touched the lives of countless students, loving and guiding them as if they were her own. She will be remembered for her genuine Christian faith, her generous and giving heart, and her joyful spirit. She loved deeply, laughed often, and had a way of making everyone around her feel valued and cared for. Her kindness and warmth left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, faith, and compassion will live on in the hearts of her family and all whose lives she touched.
A visitation will be on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Radney-Smith Funeral Home, 320 N. Elm Ave, Sylacauga, AL 35150, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. with Theoangelo Perkins and Georganna Ritch officiating. The family will be hosting a reception for friends and loved ones following the service.
Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/sylacauga-al/radney-smith-funeral-home/8516.
Radney-Smith Funeral Home in Sylacauga, AL handled the arrangements.
