Sylvia Oliver Rowe, a lifetime resident of Gloucester, Virginia, peacefully departed this world on October 24, 2023, at the age of 82. She was born in Wicomico, Virginia, on April 12, 1941, the cherished daughter of John Folkes Oliver and Roslyn Quillian Oliver. Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, as well as her brothers, Charles Folkes Oliver, John Beverly Oliver, Granville Lee Oliver, and her granddaughter, Sarah Camille Bennajma.

Sylvia was a dedicated homemaker and also worked at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science for several years. Her roles as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother were her life’s most cherished callings. Sylvia is survived by her husband of 63 years, Linwood Franklin Rowe Sr.; her daughters, Tina Lynn Lewis and Jean Desiree Rowe; her son, Linwood Franklin Rowe Jr.; her sisters, Jean Carmen Oliver and Crystal Oliver; seven grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren, all of whom she deeply loved.

In her free time, Sylvia pursued various hobbies that brought her immense happiness. She loved to fish and hunt with her husband. She was a Master Gardener. As a genealogy expert, she made many friends to individuals from all corners of the globe as she helped them trace their family histories. Additionally, she was an avid reader, immersing herself in the pages of countless books.

Sylvia was a member of Beech Grove Baptist Church, where she will be laid to rest with her parents and brothers.
A Celebration of Life to honor Sylvia will be held on November 11, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Beech Grove Baptist Church, located at 4073 Cedar Bush Creek Road, Hayes, Va. A graveside service and reception will follow at the church.

Sylvia Oliver Rowe will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kind heart, unwavering love, and dedication to her children and grandchildren will forever be cherished.

May she rest in peace.