Faith Cassandra Sykes

Born in North Carolina, Faith was the beloved only daughter and the last surviving child of Amos Sykes and Georgia Holloway. As a teenager, she made Rhode Island her home, where she built her life, raised her family, and touched countless lives with her generous spirit.

Faith leaves behind her devoted life partner, Marron Smith; her daughter, Bobbie DeBrito; her son, Tovorrics Sykes; and six treasured grandchildren: Isys, Patterson, Nazier, Amariah, Sereniti, Fari, and Michou DeBrito. She is also survived by her son in law, Lionel DeBrito; a nephew she raised as her own, Ovegas Sykes; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends who deeply cherished her.

Faith loved the ocean, though she preferred to admire it from the shore rather than step into the waves. She had a remarkable passion for helping people, especially young people in need of guidance, compassion, and a second chance. Her heart was immense, and she gave freely to anyone she could.

As her daughter, I often shared my mother with the world. She was everyone’s safe place and everyone seemed to need a piece of her. But in her final stretch of life, I was blessed with something priceless, time with her all to myself. We did things we had never done before; simply riding around together, running errands, going to appointments, spending time with my children. Even in the hardest moments, I was grateful for those ordinary, beautiful days. I got to be selfish. I got to have my mommy.

Faith dedicated many years of her life to corrections, starting at “the Wire” before continuing her calling with youth at the Training School, where she ultimately retired. Her work was more than a job; it was an extension of her compassion and belief that every young person deserved hope, guidance, and the chance to become something greater.

Faith’s legacy is one of strength, generosity, wisdom, and unconditional love. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

May her spirit rest in peace, and may her love continue to guide us.

Her visitation will be Tuesday, December 30, 2025 from 11:00-12:30 p.m. in the Romano Funeral Home, 627 Union Ave, Providence followed by burial in North Burial Ground Cemetery, Providence.