Pearlie M. Sylvester

The Pearlie M. Sylvester, age 73, of Toledo, Ohio, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, March 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family at Bay Park Hospital.

She was born on November 23, 1952, in Gibsland, Louisiana, to Algie and Beatrice (Fleming) Britton. As a young girl, she traveled with her family to Toledo, Ohio, where she was raised in a home filled with love, laughter, and strong family values. Growing up alongside four siblings meant there was always companionship, joy, and plenty of activities to share. These early years helped shape the loving, warm-hearted woman many came to know and cherish.

Pearlie attended Scott High School and was a proud member of the Class of 1970 ... “Go Bulldogs!” She married young and eagerly embraced motherhood, inspired by the happy memories of her own upbringing. She was deeply devoted to her children and took great pride in being able to offer them the same kind of nurturing, joyful home she had experienced.

Pearlie dedicated more than 12 years of service to Chrysler before retiring, a testament to her strong work ethic and perseverance. Her faith was also a central part of her life. She was a longtime and faithful member of Tabernacle Faith Church, where her devotion and commitment brought her strength and peace.

Family and friendships were at the heart of Pearlie’s world. She loved gathering with loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and creating lasting memories. A woman of many talents, Pearlie had a deep appreciation for the arts. She enjoyed attending ceramics workshops, sewing, crocheting, drawing, painting, and all kinds of arts and crafts that allowed her creativity to shine.

Pearlie also expressed her love through cooking. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and joy, known especially for her homemade macaroni & cheese, her flavorful chicken dishes, and her beloved sweet treat, most notably peach cobbler paired with banana pudding. Holidays held special meaning for her, particularly Christmas and Mother’s Day, when her family showered her with gifts and love to show how much she meant to them.

Music brought Pearlie joy and energy. She loved listening to classic Rhythm and Blues, along with favorites like Prince, Luther Vandross, Etta James, and The Temptations. When her favorite songs playing, Pearlie could often be found dancing, smiling, and enjoying the moment.

Above all, Pearlie treasured her role as a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She spoke proudly of her sons and the joy her family brought to her life. Pearlie had a smile that was warm and welcoming, one that could light up any room and make anyone feel at home.

Pearlie M. Sylvester will be lovingly remembered for her kindness, creativity, faith and unwavering devotion to her family. Her legacy of love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, Pearlie was also preceded in death by daughter, Michelle Lynn Sylvester; sister, Diana Britton; brother, Algie Britton, Jr.; granddaughter, Zien M. Sylvester and first husband, Gary Smith. She is survived by her loving sons, Dewight T. Smith, and Andy Sylvester and Henry S.L. Sylvester; brothers, Donnie Britton, Kenneth Britton, Sr. and a host of devoted grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, dear friends and former husband, Joe Sylvester.

Family will receive guests Friday, April 17th, 2026 from 10:00 -11:00 am at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd, NW Chapel (419-473-0300) where Funeral Services will begin at 11:00 am. Officiating will be Pastor Cindy Webber. Interment will follow at Forest Cemetery, Toledo, Ohio.

To share a memory of Pearlie or leave a special message for her family, please visit the Guestbook.