Sylvia Boren Cleland

  Sylvia B. Cleland, 88, of Jacksonville, Florida, went home to be with the Lord on August 13, 2025. Born on October 15, 1936, in Boston, Georgia, Sylvia lived a life filled with faith, family, and adventure.

  She was married to the love of her life, Thomas E. Cleland, for 65 years until his passing on August 3, 2020. Together, they traveled the world, living in places as far-reaching as Paris, France, and Newfoundland, Canada, and across the United States in Omaha, Nebraska, before settling in Jacksonville, Florida.

  Sylvia was the devoted mother of three children: Tommy Cleland (Mary), Karen Gray (Mark), and Mark Cleland (Pamela). She was blessed with nine grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy.

  Her life’s work reflected her deep love for God and others. Sylvia faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher for 45 years, shaping countless young hearts with her kindness and biblical wisdom. She was also a dedicated employee of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville, where she worked for 25 years, leaving behind a legacy of service, encouragement, and steadfast faith.

  To know Sylvia was to know a gentle spirit, a listening ear, and a welcoming smile. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose influence will be felt for generations.

  A visitation for Sylvia will be held Wednesday, August 20, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Legacy Lodge, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207. A funeral service will occur Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at 11:00 AM, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207. A graveside service will occur Thursday, August 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218.