Trustee Sylvester Sykes

“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”

– Ecclesiastes 3:1

Sylvester Sykes, beloved father, brother, uncle, and friend, peacefully departed this life on Saturday, July 5th, 2025, at the age of 74. He was born on Wednesday, October 18th, 1950, in Seaboard, North Carolina, to the late George and Pearlie Sykes.

Sylvester received his early education through the Northampton County Public School System, where he developed a strong foundation for a life marked by strength, humility, and dedication.

At an early age, he became a Christian. As a young adult, he joined Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church where he remained a faithful member and Trustee.

Known for his kind heart and bold spirit, Sylvester touched the lives of many with his warm smile and generous nature. He was quick to say what was on his mind, which most of the time was true whether you wanted to hear it or not. Sylvester was gentle in giving and helping others in the community. More than anything, Sylvester loved his family. He was a great provider and always encouraged his family and others in the community to strive for the best in life.

Sylvester was an avid entrepreneur and had a great work ethic his entire life. He worked for over 50 years as a skilled brick mason and owner of S. Sykes Construction Company. In the mid-1990s, Sylvester opened Sykes Garage and Auto Sales in the town of Seaboard, North Carolina. In later years, Sylvester opened First Class Trucking, Inc. He was a man who had great vision, drive, talent and hopes for his family and community.

Sylvester was devoted to his family, especially his children and grandchildren who affectionately called him Papa. He only wanted the best for his offspring and hoped to leave a legacy that would have a lasting positive impact. He cherished time spent with his siblings, nieces, nephews, and extended family. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and vacationing with his family. Sylvester was also a man that enjoyed working even during his pseudo retirement. He was always busy doing something.

Sylvester was preceded in death by his parents, George and Pearlie Sykes, and his sister, Barbara Richardson.

He leaves to cherish the memory of his love: His children: Demeitus Sykes, Lackisha Sykes Freeman (William), and Brandon Brown; His grandchildren: Aiden and Madison Freeman, Jessika Babb, Jasiyah Brown.

His loving sisters: Beatrice Jordan, Evelyn Kee, Mable Turner, Thelma Wardrick and Belinda Bradley; His devoted brothers: George Buffaloe, James Sykes and Sam Sykes; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Though he is no longer with us in body, Sylvester’s legacy of love, kindness, and bold strength will live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren and all who knew him.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mr. Sykes' tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Caring Team of T. L. Faison's Funeral Care, LLC is privileged to provide

"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity" 

to the family of Mr. Sylvester Sykes.

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

***TO ENSURE DESIRED FLORAL SELECTIONS AND A TIMELY DELIVERY,

PLEASE PLACE ORDERS THE DAY PRIOR TO THE FIRST VIEWING OF DECEASED***

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Trustee Sylvester Sykes, please visit our floral store.