Joylyn Van Sluytman

Joylyn was born on April 29th, 1945 in Georgetown, Guyana; the daughter of Joyce DeBarros and Henry Agard. Joylyn passed peacefully in the early morning of September 8th, 2026 at the age of 81. Joy, as she was affectionately known, brought warmth, comfort, and “joy” to all those around her.

Growing up in Guyana, she developed the qualities that would remain with her throughout her life. From an early age, she was an active and enthusiastic participant in school activities. She excelled academically, demonstrating not only intelligence and determination, but also a strong commitment to achieving her goals. Joylyn’s activities even included being a Phillips Drum Majorette and singing in the Olga Lopes Seale Ovaltine Radio Show with her twin sister Jacqueline.

Joylyn was also a woman of tremendous strength and work ethic. As a young woman, Joylyn worked at Bookers Universal Store and at Sugar Producers, where her dedication and commitment were evident to those who worked alongside her. Her willingness to work hard and serve others reflected the values she carried throughout her life.

Upon leaving Guyana in 1969, Joylyn immigrated to the United States and remained a resident of New York City until her passing. Through her perseverance, intelligence, and determination, she continued to progress professionally and ultimately became an Executive Secretary, working for Crompton Corporation, Palmetto Apparel Co. and Con Edison; retiring from the latter in 2010 after 23 years of service.

Joylyn married Lincoln Van Sluytman in 1973 and as a result of their union, they share her only child, Kevin (whom she affectionately referred to as her “one and only”). She devoted herself to providing love, guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support, and took great pride in nurturing her son and was always there with a listening ear, a comforting embrace, and words of wisdom.

She also knew how to enjoy life. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, creating laughter and memories that will be cherished for years to come. Joy was a wonderful cook, taking great pride in preparing delicious meals, especially her famous Guyanese patties.

Joylyn is survived by her son Kevin, her siblings Jennifer, Dale, Desiree, Andrew, Marilyn, Allison, Trevor; her niece Rosanna (Rosie) and the sons of her twin sister Jacqueline: Travis and Christopher. She will be fondly remembered by all her nieces and nephews, cousins and her many friends and family members. From her childhood in Georgetown, Guyana, through her academic accomplishments and hardworking career, to the many special moments she shared with the people she loved, Joylyn lived a life filled with purpose, achievement, family, friendship, laughter, and love.

Visitation will be held at R. Stutzmann & Son, 224-39 Jamaica Ave, Queens Village, NY 11428, US, on September 17, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with a live stream available at https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/127914.

A Funeral Mass will take place at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Catholic Church, 150-75 Goethals Ave, New York, NY 11432, US, on September 18, 2026, from 9:30 am to 10:15 am. You may watch it livestreamed here:

https://boxcast.tv/view/funeral-mass-for-joylyn-hqki0vpazywtwxq8wx5p?_gl=1*yosy8u*_gcl_au*ODg1NzY2ODI3LjE3ODg3OTc5MzMuNDEyMzg0ODMyLjE3ODk0MzE1MDUuMTc4OTQzMTUxNy41MjA4MTIxMjAuMTc4OTQzMTUwNS4xNzg5NDMxNTE3*_ga*MTM2NjQ1ODk5NC4xNzg4Nzk3OTMz*_ga_PXBBF7HVWQ*czE3ODk3MzY2NjUkbzEzJGcxJHQxNzg5NzM2OTAxJGo2MCRsMCRoMA..__;KioqKioqKg!!M2D_dUfSiN4E!OaHdOKCwBbhQtXU08SJGRb5Dg1uXygyi4BbiTR_1w2G1qRcR9-iq_RwX83NclYKLGQir2G_dxXyfjIQRo7JMK6tcCBv-rbnHJQX9-g$

Cremation will follow at All Souls Chapel and Crematory, 72-02 Astoria Blvd S, New York, NY 11370, US, on September 18, 2026, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.