Sylvia Sue Schaefer

Born on December 20, 1935, in Shelbyville, Indiana, Sylvia was the daughter of Bernice V. Eagleson and William E. Clouds. She shared 64 years of marriage with William Edward Schaefer, Sr. (retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel), and in their post-military life, they traveled the world through his private contracting work.

Sylvia embraced adventures of all kinds, whether spontaneous or thoughtfully planned, from simple outings to sharing the world with her family and friends. An avid traveler, she explored over 36 countries, experiencing new cultures with curiosity, and bringing their traditions and treasures home for everyone to share. Wherever she lived, even internationally, she effortlessly turned a house into a home, weaving local culture, flavor, and flair into everyday life. She had a gift for connecting with people, even forming lifelong friendships with foreigners that sometimes began with only a handful of shared words.

She found joy in cooking, baking, and her love of animals. As a plant and flower enthusiast, she delighted in finding unique species to add to her garden. The fragrance of a lily or a rose always made her smile. She was known for hosting unforgettable gatherings and was vibrant and fiercely devoted to her children.

Always there for life’s most meaningful moments, she never missed the births of her grandchildren, something that brought her great joy. She had an extraordinary capacity to care for people, perhaps her greatest gift.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Sharon Wilkins and Patti Degner; her grandson, Matthew Wilson; and her great-granddaughter, Karlie Pletcher.

Sylvia is survived by her devoted husband, William Edward Schaefer; her children, Jonathan Wilson (Brenda), William Schaefer Jr., Gretchen Schaefer, Katrina Otchet (Matt), and Doni Schaefer; her grandchildren, Jonathan Wilson, Ashley Diaz Morales (Julio), William Schaefer III (Grace), Sarah Schaefer, Evan Schaefer, Miles Otchet, and Ella Otchet; and her great-grandchildren, Mason Diaz, Logan Diaz, Leila Schaefer, and Violet Schaefer.

The family also extends their heartfelt gratitude to her dedicated care team, Joleesa Jocelyn, Marjorie Chery, Melereste Brutus, Olga Balega, Olga Halas, and Rachel Passarella, whose love and support, and their continued care and devotion to Bill, are invaluable.

Services will be held Saturday, May 2, at Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home in Venice, with visitation from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., followed by a 2:30 p.m. service and a reception in Osprey. Burial will take place on Monday, May 4, at Sarasota National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to support the GoFundMe for Rachel Passarella, who provided devoted and unfaltering care for Sylvia during her months at home on hospice, all while bravely facing her own life-threatening challenges, complications, and severe financial strain. Donations may be made at gofund.me/9d3f42bd2 in Sylvia’s memory.

In Sylvia’s honor, pause to admire an orchid (or bring one home), smell the roses, take the trip, and always leave room for dessert.