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1933
2019
Stephentown - Rita M. Sweet Sykes, 86, of Stephentown, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, June 11, 2019, with her loving family by her side. Born in Grafton, NY on January 1, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Milton and Nellie Sweet.Rita and her husband Paul owned and operated the Sykes Store in Stephentown until it closed in April 2016. Rita loved to bake and often sold her baked goods at the store, much to the delight of her customers. She enjoyed meeting new people at the store and formed many friendships there. Rita was at her happiest when she was spending time with her children and their families. Rita was a dedicated member of the Stephentown Federated Church.Rita is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, Paul Sykes, Sr., their children; Paul Jr., Terry, and Eileen (PJ), her grandchildren; Jason, Paula, Cindy, Alissa, Katie, and Matthew, 9 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her two brothers, Carl and Eddie, and by two daughters-in-law whom she adored dearly, Dolly and Theresa.A funeral service will be held Thursday, June 13, 2019 at 11 AM at Hall and Higgins Funeral Home, 457 NY Route 43, Stephentown. Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 10 until 11 AM. Interment will follow the service in Cemetery of the Evergreens, New Lebanon. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rita’s memory can be made to the Autism Society of the Great Capital Region, 433 State Street 4th Floor, Schenectady, NY 12305, or the Stephentown Volunteer Fire Dept., PO Box 208, Stephentown, NY 12168. Condolence book at parkerbrosmemorial.com. http://www.lastingmemories.com/rita-m-sweet-sykes
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There isn't a time I pass her house or the store I don't think about her, the baked goodies. and now her beloved Paul is with her, they both have a permanent place in mine and Carli's hearts. God Bless and keep them.
Ellis C. Foley Jr
June 5, 2022
To the family, you have my sincere condolences. When someone falls asleep in death (Ecclesiastes 9: 5,10) the memories we have of them become our most precious treasure. May those memories comfort you as well as Gods promise at John 6:40.
My deepest sympathy
Evelina Z
June 24, 2019
So sorry for your loss. Rita was a very kind and friendly lady! Cherish your memories.
Yvonne Savery
Friend
June 17, 2019
I am so sorry for your loss. Rita was always the kindest lady. Always greeted you with a smile. Cherish your memories!
Yvonne (Diamond) Savery
Hinsdale, Ma
June 17, 2019
Paul, Paul Allen, Terry, Eileen, Jason, Paula, and Alyssa, all of you are in our thoughts and prayers as we remember Rita. Always greeting people with a warm smile and genuine care for others, is what I'll remember most. Whether at the store, festive family or community gathering, or showing up to play basketball on the outdoor court, Rita's friendliness was ever present. I'm grateful to have known her and many pleasant memories.
Our Condolences,
Rosie & Bernie Sweener
June 15, 2019
With our deepest sympathy. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Peace,
Rachel & Rick Finney
Rachel Finney
June 12, 2019
Offering our deepest sympathies during this time.
The Staff of Hall & Higgins Funeral Home
June 12, 2019
To the entire Sykes Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Rita was such a sweet lady, R.I.P. Rita.
Linda & Matt Weaver
June 12, 2019
So sorry for your loss. On behalf of the Esposito family - your family has always been special to all of us.
Wendy VanDyke
June 12, 2019
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
June 12, 2019
Our deepest sympathy to the entire Sykes family. Everyone who knew Rita loved her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Bill and Pat Spaniol
June 12, 2019
So sorry for your loss Eileen, PJ, Matt and family. This fabulous lady made the best peach blueberry pie, along with her loving heart to my own children and grandchildren through the years. Gram Sykes as my kids called her. She enjoyed the company of all who came by her home, she surely will be missed! Love you all, Deborah Weaver, Josh, Marisa, Mehalia and Levi
Deborah Weaver
June 12, 2019
Paul, PA,Terry and family Carli and I are saddened to hear of Rita's passing. Our heartfelt condolences. Rita will always be in our hearts and minds. RIP.
Ellis C. Foley Jr
June 12, 2019
a loved one
June 12, 2019
Paula, I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Debbie Lyon
June 12, 2019
Our heart felt condolences go to the Sykes family for your loss of this beautiful lady. She will be greatly missed, but may the memories forever lift your hearts. Love, Tracy & Brian
June 12, 2019
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Rita was a very sweet woman.
Jean (Close) Kosche
June 12, 2019
Our condolences to the entire Sykes family , during such a difficult time ! We are so fortunate to have the privilege of being friends with Rita , for so many years ! Martin and Kat Eckhardt
Martin Eckhardt
June 11, 2019
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Jun
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10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Hall & Higgins Funeral Home457 New York Route 43, Stephentown, NY 12168
Jun
13
Funeral services provided by:
Hall & Higgins Funeral Home457 New York Route 43, Stephentown, NY 12168
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