The family of Isabell Sylvester (nee Bryce) is deeply saddened by her peaceful passing, in the arms of her daughters, on February 6, 2024, at the age of 85. Mourning her death is her husband of 62 years, Roland “Pete” Sylvester, her loving and devoted children, Michele & Paul Reid and Marie (the late Brian) Gilroy. She is loved her grandchildren, Dwight & Beth Reid, Clark & Kristin Reid and Grant Gilroy & his partner Maddie. She was Great Grandma to Mason and Cooper Reid. Her brother John (the late Sharon) & Cathie Bryce as well as her Sylvester sisters/ brothers-in-law, (Bernie, (late Jennie), Doreen, Jerry, Elaine, Diane, and their partners, have many memories of fun times spent together. She was very proud of her nephews and nieces and had many cousins (the 4th line Bryce gang) and even more friends whom she treasured and kept in touch with through phone calls, Facebook, Skype, and texts. Isabell was deeply loved by her late parents, Bertha and John Bryce and her late in-laws, Olive and Albimy “Boy” Sylvester.
Isabell had a particular joy and irreverence for life. When she worked the land on the John Deere, the radio was always blaring, and her shirt was off to get a tan. It was habits like this where she exemplified the life lessons she wished to instil in her daughters: to find the joy in every moment and run with it, and to dance like no one was watching. She was always up for a game of euchre, crib, or dice, for a party or a dance. Doing the dishes after supper usually turned into a Jive, jitterbug, or 2 Step lessons and the best conversations. She was happiest when she was among family and friends.
Isabell was an excellent homemaker, and her Northern Spy apple pies were legendary, often luring her daughters into the house after getting off the bus from school. She was an expert seamstress who made dresses, kilts, shirts, and shorts for her young daughters and eventually, her grandsons. Those home arts continue to thrive in Michele and Marie.
She was a true partner to Roland, even in the years that were tough. Raised on a farm by hardworking and loving parents, she was a farmer in her heart and operated most of the machinery and worked with the livestock. Picking stones or hoeing milkweeds always turned into a music/dance festival to get the job done quickly and with a light heart. This made things easier as birthdays were often rescheduled and celebrated on other occasions when the farm required work, planting, and harvesting. Thankfully, Isabell and Roland had many opportunities to travel to warmer climates in the winter and across Canada with the 5th wheel in tow, unlike camping in the back of the truck when their girls were young. What a luxury!
A life spent in service to others, Isabell volunteered with various community organizations: Inwood United Church, Inwood Firehall weddings/anniversaries, 4H, Home Arts judge for the Alvinston Fair, Twilight Haven 40 yrs (Meadowview Villa), Wyoming Fair Association and many others. It’s hard to imagine how many pies she helped make and fundraising tickets she sold to support these organizations. Giving back to her community and having great pride working side by side with her daughters, instilled in them the joy of service and the fulfillment it brings.
The last few months, Isabell faced some significant health challenges being diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Despite this, she continued to be the kind and appreciative person that she always was. Although, she got quite miffed with all the “strangers” (health care team) coming to check and care for her. A caregiver to her core, it was difficult for her to accept care and hated all the ‘fuss” that was made. When it was time for her daughters to head home, there was always a kiss and an “I love you, and a thank you for your help and supporting your dad”. The last months were very tiring - she was ready to go and be reunited with her parents and other loved ones.
The family would like to thank the Community Care Nursing & Palliative care team, as well as the amazing medical and custodial teams at C.E.E. Hospital of Bluewater Health, Petrolia, who provided kind and compassionate care.
Marie and Michele will miss her daily morning texts: “Hi Honey, hope you have a good day, I love you. Mom”
As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to C.E.E. Hospital Foundation -Palliative Care (www.ceehf.ca) or Plympton Wyoming Agricultural Society (Cheque only). A private interment will take place at Wyoming Cemetery.
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