Sylvia Yazgi

Sylvia Mary Yazgi was born in Jacksonville, Florida on April 27, 1949. She was the oldest of seven children born to Tom and Nora Joseph Yazgi. She is survived by her husband Monir; children, Stephanie and Estephan; her father, Tom; her sister, Tonia; her brothers, Rogih, Abdo(Linda), Sammy, and George (Susie); her niece. Nora; her nephew, Harry; and countless extended family members and friends. She also leaves behind her beloved family pets, Raleigh, Roland, Pearl, and Everest. She was predeceased by her mother Nora, her little sister Mary Ann, and her sister-in-law Pat.

Sylvia graduated with honors from Bishop Kenny High School, received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Jacksonville University, and a Master’s degree in Education from the University of North Florida. She loved to teach, and early in her teaching career she taught students at Eugene Butler through the Duval County Public School system. She taught with great passion, and continued her love for education later in life through her volunteer work, teaching and tutoring countless other children in our community who needed help to succeed in school. She taught a variety of subjects from English, to math, to civics. Her favorite subject was history, as she had a passion for this country that rivaled any true patriot. She had a kind and open heart, and shared her love of learning, teaching, and helping people with both long time residents as well as new immigrants. Sylvia Yazgi was acting president of the Salaam Club of Florida for the past two years. She was president of the Zaidal Ladies Charity Club and held leadership in the Syrian Women’s Charity Society, taking over this legacy from her mother and grandfather. She was very proud of her roots, and would often be heard reminding new generations that “…He who denies his heritage, has no heritage.” A strong believer in civic duty, charity and advocacy, a great respect for her ancestral heritage, and a strong love for America and democracy all reflect the essence of this community matriarch.

Sylvia had a caring and bold spirit and was driven to stand up for what is right. She felt compelled to speak on behalf of those unable to speak for themselves. She loved children and animals, and she protected her loved ones with a fierce and unconditional love that can only be described and understood by those who knew her. She carried this love for others through to the end of her life, never failing to give selflessly of her talents in order to benefit individuals and our community.

Sylvia left this world on November 5, 2016 after having being diagnosed with cancer only two short months before. To have known her is to have known a beautiful mother, wife and sister, wonderful friend and teacher, and a fiercely loyal and compassionate person. She will be greatly missed from our lives, but ever remembered. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial contribution in Sylvia’s name by phone, mail or online to one of her two favorite organizations: Zeus’ Place Rescues http://zeusrescues.org/ (4601 Freret Street, New Orleans, LA 70115) or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105).

A memorial mass will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, November 19, 2016 at Christ the King Catholic Church, 742 Arlington Rd N, Jacksonville, FL 32211, with Father James Boddie and Father Talat Yazji officiating.