James V. Sylvester Sr.

James Vincent Sylvester Sr., 91, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening February 8, 2023 at his residence, surrounded by his loving family. James was born in Niles, Ohio on April 10, 1931 the son of Joseph C. and Mary Agnes (Elias) Sylvester and has lived in this community all his life.

Jim was a graduate of Warren St. Mary's High School and received a Bachelors of Science degree in Education from Kent State University. He honorably served in the United State Air Force during the Korean War. He was a skilled tile mechanic for Tunison Inc. and Biviano's Tile and later was a teacher in Interior Design Technologies at the Trumbull County Joint Vocational School (TCTC). He was an active member of St. Stephen Church, he served as a Lector, the Marriage Preparation Program, and the Christian Preparation (RCIA). He was a past director at the Mahoning Valley Sanitary District (MVSD) and past president of the Niles Democratic Club. He enjoyed singing with the Stephen Foster Choir. Jim was an avid Warren JFK, Cleveland Indians, Browns, Cavaliers, Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Columbus Crew fan. He was also a reader of American and local history.

Jim was a great husband and father, he is survived by six children, James V. (RaeAnn) Sylvester Jr. of Niles, Regina (Robert) Steines of Howland, Joseph A. (Lori) Sylvester of Columbus, Michael P. (Sherrie) Sylvester of McDonald, John F. "Jay" (Julie) Sylvester of Niles, Patrick G. (Carol) Sylvester Sr. of Niles; 18 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Patricia (Walter) Colbrunn of Austintown, and several nephews and nieces. Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife Patricia R. Fitzpatrick Sylvester whom he married on July 18, 1951 and who died on June 27, 1995; an infant grandson Joseph C. Sylvester; and sister Shirley Keel.

Calling hours will be from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday February 12, 2023 at the Holeton-Yuhasz Funeral Home where the St. Stephen Bereavement Ministry will have a 3:30 p.m. prayer service. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday February 13, 2023 at St. Stephen Church preceded by a 10:15 a.m. prayer service at the funeral home. Rev. Richard Murphy will be the celebrant. Burial will be at St. Stephen Cemetery with military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Stephen Church 129 West Park Avenue, Niles, Ohio 44446.