Winona Kay Sybesma

Winona “Nona” Sybesma was born in Bellflower, California, on March 30, 1953, to Gerrit and Willemina Vanden Brink. She grew up in Bellflower, living in the same home throughout her entire childhood with her four siblings: Charon (Paul VanNoord), Karen (Sid Wind), Gerrit (Diana) Vanden Brink, and Stan (Carol) Vanden Brink.

It was at a pizza parlor where Nona met the love of her life, Allan Sybesma. They were married on August 6, 1971. While Allan served in the Army, Nona remained in Bellflower until they eventually made their home in Fontana, where they raised their three children: LeAndra, Jr., and Emily.

Nona raised her children to know and love Jesus. More than simply teaching them about Him, she showed them what it looked like to have a personal relationship with Him.

Nona loved spending time with her family and friends. She loved leading Bible studies at her church, teaching Sunday school & GEMS, and directing holiday musicals for children’s ministry. Serving others and sharing her faith brought her great joy.

Nona worked as a secretary at Lincoln Avenue Reformed Church before beginning her work with World Vision International. Her time at World Vision opened her eyes to more of the world and eventually took her to the Philippines and Thailand, sparking a love for travel and missions. She later traveled to Kenya with Beautiful Gate, where she served at an orphanage.

Nona was blessed with six grandchildren and one great-grandchild, and somehow, she had a way of making each one feel as though they were her favorite. She showed up. She was there for sporting events, theater performances, award ceremonies, and the moments that mattered to them. They could always count on hearing her signature “Whoop!Whoop!” from the audience, making sure they knew Grandma was cheering them on.

On August 23, 2026, Nona went home to be with Jesus, surrounded by her loving family.

No more struggle. No more pain.

She fought the good fight.

She finished the race.

She kept the faith.

And now she is with Jesus who she loved so deeply and faithfully followed throughout her life.