Sylvia Corene Gosnell, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in Memphis on April 1, 2024, at the age of 79. She was born on July 2, 1944, in Camp Bowie, Texas. As part of a military family, Sylvia grew up in Germany, lived in Maryland, North Carolina, Florida, and Memphis.
Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents Harvey and Loveta Snitzler, and her brother Harvey “Sonny” Snitzler Jr. She is survived by her children Kevin Gosnell and Debbie Williams (Raymond), as well as her three grandchildren, whom she thought hung the moon and filled her heart with pride and joy: Raymond Williams, Sydney Claire Williams, and Mitchell Gosnell.
Affectionately known as “Mimi” to her grandchildren and almost everyone else, Sylvia treasured spending time with her grandkids and grand-dog, Wallace. Mimi was often seen cheering on the sidelines of her grandkids sporting events, loved Memphis Tigers Basketball, had a green thumb and enjoyed gardening, and was the number 1 spoiler of Wallace with treats and toys. She was an avid reader and shared this love with her son and grandson. She never missed a holiday, birthday, or milestone occasion often showing up with homemade baked goodies which were her specialty.
Over the course of her life, it was evident that Sylvia wanted to give back to those who provided for her family. She volunteered at her children’s elementary school in North Carolina, at her grandchildren’s school here in Memphis, and for various events and activities at her long-time community of Plough Towers – all of whom she referred to as family.
A memorial service to celebrate Sylvia's life will be held at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN on Saturday, April 20th at 11:00 AM, with a visitation starting at 10:00 AM.
Please join us in remembering and celebrating the incredibly full life of our favorite Mimi. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Plough Towers Fund at 6580 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38138 in honor of Sylvia’s life and memory.
