Sylvia Anne Elder

Sylvia Anne Elder passed away peacefully at home in Kansas City, Missouri on December 7, 2025. She was born in Evansville, Indiana on November 8, 1942, the fourth of seven children born to Daniel and Agnes Kaiser. They did not have a lot growing up, but from the stories we hear, there were plenty of antics and mischief.

Sylvia lived a life defined by selflessness, loyalty, and a steadfast spirit. Her deep Catholic faith and devotion to family brought her peace and purpose throughout her life.

She graduated from Reitz Memorial High School in 1960 and attended St. Benedict College. Her calling to nurture and guide was evident early on as she taught at St. Joseph and Holy Rosary schools. On June 13, 1964, Sylvia married Phillip Elder and dedicated herself fully to motherhood, the role she was born for.

Her greatest joy was found in her family. Her children remember her always being there, a steady presence who was ready to listen, support, and give advice (sometimes whether wanted or not). It was her grandchildren, however, who gave her a renewed purpose in life. After waiting what seemed like forever to her, she welcomed six grandbabies in nine years, and her home became a childcare center. She was wonderfully busy. Grandma Sylvia was their biggest cheerleader, celebrating every milestone and achievement. She shared a unique and special bond with each one.

Her home was a place of warmth and welcome. If you showed up at the house, you could always expect to be fed. Before every meal, she prayed the Hail Mary for family members not present, holding them close even in their absence. This spirit of service extended throughout her faith life. She volunteered tirelessly in the Catholic community, most recently as a lector at St. Thomas More. Her favorite color was red, rooted in a special love for Pentecost, the Holy Day where red serves as the symbol of the Holy Spirit. All Saints Day held equal importance to her, and now she's having a grand reunion with all the saints in Heaven.

Her loyalty was unwavering, demonstrated through her devoted care to her family and, most recently, caring for her ailing husband during his battle with brain cancer. Despite life's challenges, she maintained a wry sense of humor and a contagious laugh that will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her fondest wish was for everyone to find common sense. She enjoyed quilting and had a remarkable knack for piecing things together.

Sylvia is survived by her younger sister Mary, and three brothers: Don, Dan, and Ron, her four children T.R. Elder, Caroline Elder Danda (Matt), Tom Elder, and Emily Elder, and six grandchildren Lucy, Tommy, Macie, Ryan, Jay, and Drew. She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Phillip Elder, and siblings Thomas Kaiser and Caroline Kaiser Wootten.

A funeral service will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Church on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 11 am followed by a luncheon. There will be a private burial service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Catholic Charities in Sylvia Elder's memory.