Earl W Sykes

Earl Wayne Sykes Sr. was born February 6, 1947, to J.D. and Wilma Sykes in Houston, Texas. He attended Piney Point Elementary School, R.G. Lockett Junior High and graduated from Evan E. Worthing High School in 1964. He enrolled in Texas Southern University before enlisting in the US Army. As a young man, he was baptized at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church by the late Rev. C. G. Wilkins. After an honorable discharge from the Army; he held various positions in the Houston area, including roles at Gray Tools, Air Products, and Texas Brine, where he ultimately retired. As a man of many talents; he became locksmith and a member of the Texas Locksmith Association and member of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas.

On September 5, 1970, Earl married his high school sweetheart, Virginia Y. Hobbs. They were blessed to share 44 years of marriage, until she was called home to be with the Lord. He was a father of four (4) Mary (Tina) Davis, Earl Wayne Sykes Jr., Derrick, and Shermari. Earl enjoyed music and worked part-time as “Mr. DJ” with an outstanding record collection! His love for basketball began in high school, and eventually all sports became part of his pastimes.

By chance, on a football board, Earl won a classic 1955 Chevy. The Chevy led the way to classic car events, and a membership in The Old Skool Rollers Car Club.

Earl met and married Joyce Marks. They tied the knot on April 6, 2018, with Pastor Gusta Booker Sr. officiating. Together they built a life grounded in faith, family, and love. Joyce led Earl on an adventure that included moving to Richmond, Texas, and then to Franklinton, Louisiana. They enjoyed 7 years of marriage and being a doggie dad to Teddy.

On September 30, 2025, Earl went home to be with the Lord. He leaves to cherish his life and memories, a Devoted Wife, Joyce Marks Sykes. Children: Mary (Tina) Davis (Jean), Earl Wayne Sykes Jr. (Leslie), Derrick Sykes, Shermari Sykes, Christopher Marks, and Kristel Marks. Grandchildren Genera D. Knighten (Xavier), Keaisha Davis, Tai Davis, (Little) Derrick Sykes, Hannah Sykes, Gabbriel Sykes, Samantha Sykes, DeShaun Marks, and Great Grandchildren (Preston & Carter Knighten). Siblings: Beverly Sykes McDonald (Ernest), Jerrald D. Sykes (Ethel), Janet LaRosa Martin, and Addrian N.K. Sykes. Special Aunts Helen Earl Sykes Brown, Catherine Sykes and Lyrna Rose Malone. Special Cousin Thelma Cooper Sampson. God-Daughter (Ashlei Brooks) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.