Sylvia Jean Curtis

So here we are - all gathered together as a family which you know is one thing I cherish most. I remember the Family Reunions we used to host in Harvey. Nobody even wanted to stay at a hotel, you all stayed in our home.

So, where should I start? I was born in Toledo, OH August 16, 1935 to the late James A. Brown and Rachel A. Serrell. I married the late Harry Stephen Curtis, Sr. on December 20, 1952 and remained married for 53 years. Harry & I had four children: Diana Denise., Harry Stephen Jr., Eric Wynne /Jacqueline, and Christopher Kevin Sr. When I married, Harry’s family became my family! I had new brothers and sisters: James, Rose, Juanita, Shirley, Ted, and Larry. I love you all so much. Thank you for accepting me into your family.

I received my early education in Springfield, IL, and Thornton Community College in Harvey, IL, and began my career as Asst. Director of Clinics at Planned Parenthood Association of Chicago, IL for 10 years. I ended my career as a Counselor for at risk students at Country Club High School in Illinois.

I was a member and contributor to several organizations: Naomi Chapter #6 Order of Eastern Star 33 degree; A.M. Women’s Missionary Society (35 years); NAACP, The Big Sisters of Country Club Hills, and the Southern Poverty Law Center which fights against hatred & intolerance in America, where my name has been added to the Wall of Tolerance in Montgomery, AL.

I came to Christ at as a teenager at St. John A.M.E in Springfield, IL, and later attended Murph A.M.E church in Phoenix, AZ where I served as Pastors Stewart and choir member. I was recently baptized, and recommitted my Christian faith at Murph A.M.E before the Master called.

Let me tell you a little bit about my family. I have one sister: Gwendolyn Gary in Detroit, MI, two sisters-in-law: Rosa M. Curtis, and Shirley Cox in Springfield, IL; three brothers-on-law: Theodore Curtis, Sr., Larry (Carlene) Curtis, Sr., and Clarence Stowe, Sr., and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

My husband harry S. Curtis, Sir of 53 years, and my parents Rachell Serell and James Brown, my brother Richard Miller, my sister Madeline King and grandson Harry S. Curtis, III preceded me on death.

My grandchildren: Stephen, Shanice, LaShama, Quentin, Enisha, Ashley, Harry, Ashley Morgan, Christopher Jr., Janice, and Courtney.

My Great grandchildren: Jourdan, Jaden, Azeza, Darien, Allana, Sanae, Tatiana, Isreal and Michael.

I have been blessed to live a long, long life. I love you.