Sylvia Tsitouris Belk

The fifth of six children, she was born December 29, 1933, in Monroe, NC, to the late Phillip and Verla Mae Rowell Tsitouris, and graduated from Benton Heights High School. Proud of her Greek heritage, she would want you to know her father was born in Karpenise, Greece, settled and met his loving wife in Monroe, and owned the Monroe Cafe in the 1950's. Three years out of high school, Sylvia met and married her husband of 69 years, Don, and began a career as a cosmetologist while her husband pursued a career in education. Settling first at the teacherage in downtown Matthews, she and Don soon built a house adjacent to the Fincher Farm just outside of town.

In 1962, Sylvia took on her most treasured role—that of full-time mother to raise their daughter, Libby. In 1974, she followed her passion for working with children and began substitute teaching at Metro School. The principal quickly recognized her dedication and hired her full-time, launching a 28-year career serving students with warmth and care. Active in the Matthews United Methodist Church, she cherished her life-long friends in the Elizabeth Patrick Sunday School class. In retirement, she delighted in spoiling her three grandchildren, enjoying beach trips and family outings, nurturing friendships, and especially attending Tsitouris and Belk family reunions. She and Don lovingly tended their yard well into their eighties, and she became a selfless caregiver to him in the later years of his life.

Sylvia is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Libby and Steve Jackson; grandchildren Ashley, Kathryn, and Wesley; and sister-in-law, Dorothy (Dot) Tsitouris. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Don Belk; her brothers, Ernest, Johnny, and Steve; and her sisters, Georgia Brooks and Rachael Biggers. The family will receive friends from 1 to 2pm on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Matthews United Methodist Church, 801 South Trade Street, Matthews, NC 28105 with a memorial service to follow. The graveside service will be conducted immediately afterward at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 3700 Forest Lawn Drive, Matthews, NC 28104.

The family wishes to recognize the staff at Sunrise on Providence for their dedication to excellence in caregiving and thank them for their love and support these last six months. Mrs. Belk loved flowers, but optionally, please consider a memorial contribution to Via Health Partners (Hospice), 7845 Little Ave. Charlotte, NC 28226 (viagiving.org) or to St. Nektarios Greek Orthodox Church, 5108 Kuykendall Rd, Charlotte, NC 28270.

A visitation will be held Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Matthews United Methodist Church, 801 S Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105. A funeral service will occur Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 801 S Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105. A committal service will occur Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Forest Lawn East Cemetery, 3700 Forest Lawn Dr, Matthews, NC 28104.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com.