Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Sylvia Woods Obituary
Woods died Thursday afternoon at her home in Mount Vernon, N.Y., said her granddaughter Tren'ness Woods-Black. She had been dealing with Alzheimer's disease for the past few years.
Woods and her husband Herbert, natives of South Carolina who met as children, started Sylvia's Restaurant in 1962. The restaurant became a Harlem fixture, with tourists and locals coming there for cornbread, ribs, collard greens, fried chicken and other staples of Southern cooking. Politicians made frequent visits while on the campaign trail.
One of those politicians, Rep. Charles Rangel, said he celebrated his recent victory in the Democratic primary for Congress at the restaurant, which is in his district and which he described as "a magical place that brought the community together."
"Ms. Sylvia created a special place on Lenox and 127th street. Sylvia's may have been famous nationally and internationally, but its soul has always remained in Harlem," he said. "Nothing can replace its founder, but her legacy will live on in the memories she helped make."
Rev. Al Sharpton said Sylvia's was "more than a restaurant, it has been a meeting place for Black America." He said he had dined there with many famous faces including President Barack Obama and Caroline Kennedy.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg said, "We lost a legend today. For more than 50 years, New Yorkers have enjoyed Sylvia's and visitors have flocked to Harlem to get a table. In her words, the food was made with 'a whole lot of love' and generations of family and friends have come together at what became a New York institution."
From its start as a restaurant, Sylvia's has grown to include multiple cookbooks and a nationwide line of food products.
Woods-Black said the restaura nt, marking its 50th anniversary in August, is more than just a place to eat, that it's a place where her grandmother could express her hospitality, a tradition that following generations have maintained.
"If you come alone, you're never going to dine alone," she said.
Woods-Black said her grandmother had officially stepped down from running the restaurant when she was 80, leaving it in the hands of her children and grandchildren.
She said funeral arrangements were still being finalized.
Herbert Woods died in 2001.
DEEPTI HAJELA
Associated Press
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
241 Entries
DeLinda Young
June 5, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Viola Pressley
June 25, 2017
May she rest in peace. God bless all the family and friends. I'm sure that she was a great person.
Viola Pressley
June 25, 2017
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the family. May she rest in peace.
Bernadette Henegain
May 11, 2014
may she rest in peace.
How you can show support
tameir Clau
October 11, 2013
Mrs.Woods, was a lady that brought joy to those of us who have a copy of her cookbook. When I make one of her recipes, it's as though she is there with you. Through her stories in her book she cameto life. I hope she is resting in the Lord's presence. May God continue to BLESS her family and friends!
Lisa Smith
October 8, 2013
Slyvia's Resturant is a legend that will not be forgotten.I hope this precious family will keep this wonder of the world going.
Dear Mrs. Woods rest in peace and may the peace of God be with you always.
I'll see you when I got home (heaven).
January 28, 2013
I think that was sad she past but she's in a better place and gets to rest in peace
Joanne Major
August 15, 2012
Happy homecoming for her sad times for those who miss her, happy memories be with you all. I never had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Woods, but I did have the pleasure of eating in her resturant many years ago and I have an autographed copy of her cookbook. Everyone who has the chance to taste the Red Velvet cake recipe always wants more and or the recipe, so many great recipes and interesting facts in that book
Stanley and Gloria(Jean) Brown Minick
August 5, 2012
Our hearts go out to all of you during the lost of your dear and sweet Mother. Cousin Sylvia has indeed left a legacy for all of you. She was truly a great cook and we will always remember the family reunions we shared together. May God continue to keep and bless all of you with love in a very special way. The memories will last forever.
Catherine Brown-Washington
August 1, 2012
May God continue to bless your family. Your family have our sympathy during this time. Love to the family from your cousins in Charleston, SC
Toby Barr-Knight
July 30, 2012
For the Lord does not abandon anyone forever. Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion according to the greatness of his unfailing love." Lamentations 3:22-26; 31-32
The Family of Booker Tee and Bertha Lee Barr of Phoenixville, Penna.
Sherion Toney
July 29, 2012
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Reatha Wilkins
July 29, 2012
I was saddened by the death of Sylvia Woods. I had the pleasure of sharing Easter lunch at her restaurant back in '94. For the first time in my life, I actually liked collards! It had to be the dollop of love included in all her food. She will be missed by so many. It helps to know that she is now in the bosom of God.
Queen Wallace
July 28, 2012
Thinking of you in your time of sorrow. I have enjoyed selling and telling folks about Mrs. Wood's cookbook at my bookstore. May God keep you all in his loving care. Queen E. Wallace, Manager BOOKWORLD INC. Lake City, SC
Roberta Adams
July 28, 2012
Sincere condolescenes to the Woods familyWe have cetainly lost an angel.Your beautiful dmile will br missed.
Jethro Benjamin
July 27, 2012
Sylvia, your smile and graciousness will always be remembered. Our prayers are with the family.
Irma, Norma, and the Eaddy family
July 27, 2012
May God continue to be with you and your family in your time of sorrow.
Laronda and Levan Timmons
July 27, 2012
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Maria Ratliff
July 27, 2012
The Woods Family and friends are in our prayers. Mrs. Woods definitely has left a legacy for us to cherish her memory. Blessings from Pastor Hiram and Maria Ratliff, New Tabernacle Baptist Church, 990 East 181 Street, Bronx, NY 10460.
Modestine Woodberry
July 27, 2012
My heart is heavy for our family @ this time. Watched a video of you last night and i will always keep in my heart that life is short and full of love. Love you Aunt Sylvia and will surely miss your kind and loving voice. Modestine
Carolyn Pritchette
July 27, 2012
July 27, 2012
To the family of Mrs. Wood I had a pleasure to eat at your restuarant in 2002 and my church MT Tabor here in Philadelphia PA went to see a play at the Apolla Theater and we went to eat at Sylvia Restuarant and the food was oh my god would melt in your mouth I hope that her hard work will continue and I saw her and Ms Sylvia was so nice and greeted us like had known us for a long time but I know that she is in heaven and that God has something else in store for her in the many mansion he told us about I love you Ms Sylvia and now be in peace on the other side called heavenly home in the blossom of our heavenly father
Marilyn Brown Lewis
July 26, 2012
May God give you peace and comfort now and always. My mother, Sarah Pressley Brown, was a first cousin of Mrs. Sylvia's. They both grew up in Hemingway and like my mother, I'm sure that Mrs. Sylvia fought the good fight & kept the faith. She was a very gracious lady.
CLB
July 26, 2012
God Bless Miss Sylvia's family and friends and millions of foodie fans and customers. Miss Sylvia was such a great inspiration an encouragement to so many. She used her gift of cooking to bless so many people!
Larry & Octavia Williams
July 26, 2012
Sylvia was truly a wonderful woman and will be missed. We are praying for you.
July 26, 2012
ALTHOUGH I NEVER HAD THE DISTINCT PLEASURE OF MEETING MISS SYLVIA IN PERSON I HAVE ADMIRED HER ALL MY LIFE- SHE WAS ALWAYS SO LOVING AND SWEET ON TV... AND HER MOTTO OF COOKING WITH LOVE HAD BECOME MINE AS WELL-- GOD BLESS YOU MISS SYLVIA AS YOU TRAVEL BACK TO OUR DIVINE MOTHER/FATHER. RENE
July 25, 2012
Our deepest sympathy goes out to our family the Woods, may God comfort you.
Randolph and Sallie Johnson
Pansy Green
July 25, 2012
Our deepest sympathies go to the Woods family.
My boyfriend, his nephew, and I had the distinct pleasure of dining at Sylvia's Thanksgiving 1999 while on winter vacation. Mrs. Woods I found out is originally from my hometown of Hemingway, SC.
May God bless her entire family.
Pansy Green
David Brown
Atlanta, Ga
Martha Waldon
July 25, 2012
With, deepest sympathy to the woods family,she was an angel of joy, that will be missed. RSP SYLVIA.
James & Carrie Williams
July 25, 2012
James & Carrie Williams of Jeremiah United Methodist Church located in Hemingway, South Carolina express our deepest sympathy in the lost of the Soul Food Queen Legend.
loria cooper
July 25, 2012
I am sorry for our lost, they'll never be anothnd I've never been to Sylvia's restaurant,but I am family. Sylvia's mother Momma Julia, delivered me into this world,and for that I'll always love this family.
Chantee McFadden
July 24, 2012
I am in the Navy Reserves and everytime I had orders for New York, I'd make SYLVIA's my place first stop!!! Being from Nacogdoches,Texas, I felt at home conversating with Mrs. Woods and embracing her words of encouragement on suceeding in whatever you set out to do.My thoughts and prayers are with the family. God Bless.
Miki Wright
July 24, 2012
I was lost in a big city, scared, and I walked into the restaurant for a cup of tea (all I could afford), in 1972. Mrs. Woods brought me the tea, plus a big plate of biscuits and jam, then she brought a big ol' plate of sausage, bacon, and ham...She said I looked half-starved and needed to keep up my strength so I could follow God's path for me. It was the only time I was ever there, but her kindness and the feeling of meeting a new friend has always been a part of me. May God give strength to those who loved her...
kimberly zeigler
July 24, 2012
My deepiest sympathy to the woods family.she will be greatly missed.I was born and raised in harlem on 115th 7th&8th Ave.it was never a day go by I didn't dine at Sylvia's,either
Bfast,lunch,or dinner.great food.love you Sylvia.rest in peace
Marline Martin
July 24, 2012
Gone from our sight, but never our memories. Gone from our touch, but never our hearts. With deepest sympathy, we wish you the gift of a memory whenever you need to know, the one you love still walks with you wherever you may go. Sylvia's legacy and entrepreneurial spirit will live on in her family and the greater Harlem. community.
Rev. Harriet Massingill
July 24, 2012
I was sadden to hear of your mother, Mrs.Sylvia Woods passing, my heart and prayers are with you and the family. She was an amazing woman. Our loss, Heaven gain. "Be Not dismayed whatever Be-tide, God will take care of You" I Love You All.
What is a Phenomenal Woman?
A phenomenal woman is A master of Arts, A creative master chef, A peace keeper, A seamstress, A true disciplinarian, A Friend to All, A true and worthy confidant, A pioneer, A protector, A craftsman who earned her star, A woman who loved Her God, A master at stretching a dollar, A woman who is a showstopper, A wise and noble housekeeper, A trail blazer, A woman who tell it like it Tis, A woman of beauty, full of compassion and love.Who is this woman? Proverb 31 calls her Virtuous, Who is this phenomenal woman? Oh! didn't I tell you, Her name is Mrs. Sylvia Woods, that's who it is.
Deirdre Woodford
July 24, 2012
When I was growing up my Mom used to take us to Sylvia's on a regular basis. To hear that this phenominal woman is no longer with us is sad. Gdd Bless the family in tis time of sorrow. My prayers are with you all.
Irene Evans
July 24, 2012
My condolences to the family of Ms. Sylvia Woods. She will be deeply missed. I truly enjoyed so many wonderful meals dining at her restaurant during my many business trips to NY. I know the family will keep her legacy alive! May she rest in peace.
kimberly cummings
July 24, 2012
celebrating a wonderful well lived life. we will cherish the memories forever.
Daley Aker
July 24, 2012
Heaven is now complete. All souls now have food for thought.
Denise Brantley
July 24, 2012
My heart goes out to your family in there time of sorrow.You will be miss deeply and I enjoyed your soul food a lot You are truly a legend gone but not forgotten ....MAY YOU REST IN HEAVEN AND PEACE.LOVE YOU
Rethia Keels
July 23, 2012
To Rev.Van and family May God Bless you and your family in this time of sorrow,your mother will truly be missed. Praying for the family.
Deloris & Rose Nell
July 23, 2012
He Knows, He's Been There
by Deloris Barr
If you think that no one understands
The trials you're going through
The awful pain, the heavy burdens
That seem far too much to endure
Just remember, He knows our puny frame
He's aware, He knows your name
He understands, is very much aware
Yes, He knows, He's been there
He laid aside His mighty power
That's not all, His Glory, too
Even humbled Himself further
He actually died, for me and you
Don't you see, He knows of suffering
He's felt the pain, that you feel within
He understands, He is aware
He knows all about it,
'Cause He's been there
He's been there, yes, He's been there
Jesus knows your situation
Yes He knows, yes, He's been there
Copyright © 2003
Gale Bowens
July 23, 2012
To The Woods Family, May Ms. Sylivia Woods rest in peace. She is in our Lord's care. Her legacy is with all of you. Prayers and good memories will get you through this difficult time.
July 23, 2012
ALICE CLARK @FAMILY
WASHINGTON NORTH CAROLINA
Cindy Rouff
July 23, 2012
Rest in Peace special lady. May your family and friends find comfort knowing how much you were loved. There will be some awesome soul food in heaven now.
July 23, 2012
GOD BLESS THE FAMILY DURING THEIR LOSS SHE WAS A GREAT LADY. I WORK WITH HER IN 1968 the first job i got when i got to NEW YORK FROM N.C.
ALICE CLARK WASHINGTON NORTH CAROLINA
Mable McDonald
July 23, 2012
God bless and keep you all, Miss Sylvia will be greatly missed by all who knew her and now she's the new name in HEAVEN.
James Millsaps
July 23, 2012
So sorry to hear of the passing of Ms. Sylvia Woods. May God give the family the love and comfort they will need to sustain this loss. RIP, Ms. Woods.
McCoy Family
July 23, 2012
Dear Family;
May the God of Peace be with you, and cherished memories bring you comfort now and always.
Philippians 4:6-7.
Prayerful Condolences,
Felisha McCray
July 23, 2012
It was such a pleasure to be personally greeted by Miss Sylvia while visiting the city with my Upward Family from Akron, OH for one of our summer trips she definately put a a demonstration that I'll never forget. She'll be truly missed!!! My prayers are with her family
cherryl tracy
July 23, 2012
what a lady may GOD bless you miss Sylvia. and to her family what a gift you had in her. may GOD comfort you in your lost.
July 23, 2012
To the family of Sylvia Woods, May the love of family and friends sustain you during this difficult time of pain and sadness. Psalms 55:22.
Adrienne Tatum
July 23, 2012
I never been to New York,But to look upon Mrs.Sylvia face, I can see the "LOVE" in that smile she had for other people. Praying for the family.
July 23, 2012
To Van and family of Mrs Sylvia Woods May God bless and keep you all during this time of your great loss. Our prays and thoughts are with you all John & Diana Newsome
Doris Little-Craig
July 22, 2012
May God give you comfort in this time of your sorrow. I never met Mrs.Woods but had the opportunity of eating at her restaurant when a friend and I were attending a show in Atlanta GA, We ask our driver where was the best place to eat? without hesitation he told us Sylvia's. The food was delicious and the service was excellent. After that we always went there to eat.May God bless her family and love ones. Rest in peace Sylvia.
Olga P.
July 22, 2012
My deep condolences to the family and friends of Sylvia Woods. I never had the privlidge of meeting Ms. Woods but from all the comments she was an exceptional woman. May her family find comfort from God's word recoreded at Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10 regarding the loss of their loved one. Again my deepest condolences on the loss of your dear loved one.
carmen woods
July 22, 2012
Though I didn't know your love one personally I pray that you all find the strength beyond what is normal in GOD to carry on her legacy and hard work.
July 22, 2012
To the the family of Sylvia Woods - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that she will be missed by many.
July 22, 2012
To the family of Ms. Sylvia, I never had the pleasure of meeting her but I had the pleasure of making her Black eyed Pea sald. I pray your strength in the Lord and that He holds each and everyone of you in the hollos of His hands. God Bless all who are connected to Ms. Sylvia.
L. Williams, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Barbara White
July 22, 2012
Too The Family of Ms. Sylvia Wood:May you be comforted by the love of God &His Son Jesus Christ.I have been so blessed to own a copy of her famous cookbook,"Sylvia's Family Soul Food Cook book" Because of the recipes I have prepared many,many,many delicious dishes.My prayer is that you her family continue to carry on her great Legacy.R.I.P.(Sylvia)Barbara White ForestPark, Ga
Linda
July 22, 2012
The only things I can say is Thank you and Rest in Peace.
Jo Ann Osbey
July 22, 2012
My prayers go out to the family during this time of loss. I had the opportunity of meeting her grand daughter this past May when we (The Narvie J. Harris Chorus) toured Harlem and ate at the restaurant. May her spirit live on in your hearts.
July 22, 2012
Young, cold terible weather.Ms. Sylvia sad that any Police wishing to get out of ths nasty weather to come and share dinner with the people dining.
Sylvia saw a lot of good in people and it just had a way of rubbingoff on a person.
Good nihgt and GOd Bless you. You were a one in a million. God sent you to Harlem for a reason. You guided lives
Michael Grinage
July 22, 2012
I remember my first time at Sylvia's, it was her birthday and she was greeting customers at the door and Al Sharpton came to celebrate with her. Thank you, for the fantastically wonderful food and atmosphere.
rocky poole
July 22, 2012
May 'You Be Blessed
Rosa Bogar
July 22, 2012
Sylvia Woods, sreved us well with her life! She will be forever missed but,always be remembered! I am also a South Carolina,and had the pleasure of meeting her. "her sweet words of wisdom will be forever treasured.A-shaa to "Queen of Soul Food"
Cynthia D. Stoner
July 22, 2012
R.I.P. (Rest In Peace). I had the privilege to meet (I had a picture taken with her) and dine at Sylvia's.
Willie C Fields Jr
July 22, 2012
RIP Sylvia Woods.
It will be refreshing to know that when I go from labor to reward, as you have done, their will be a home cooked meal waiting for me. May God's Grace confort the Family at your time of sorrow.
Pauletta Bowen
July 22, 2012
To the family of Sylvia Woods
You have my deepest condolences. I will never forget the hospitality and delicious food while visiting at the resturant.
The best soul food, the service was simple beautiful. I met Mrs. Woods 2002 while visiting in New York. Her kindness, geniune, and meekness will always be cherished in my heart.
May God give you strength and comfort at this time.
Pauletta Bowen
floretta cahill
July 22, 2012
my prayers are with this family, sylvia will be greatly missed.
mattie thomas
July 22, 2012
She's resting now job well done, gone but never forgotten, my condolences to the family
Bonnie Mason
July 22, 2012
I was sadden by the news of ms. Sylvia's passing it was comforting to know that she was such a sucessful chef and owner of a great restaurant I wiil miss her presence god bless and her family my sincere sympathies to the family
Theresa Hunt
July 22, 2012
May God keep the family together with love
Gloria Hunter
July 22, 2012
The best food and hospitality I ever had in my life and I am 64 years old! Thank You Ms. Sylvia for a job well done!
Ella Branch
July 22, 2012
My condolences to The family of Ms. Sylvia. May God bless you. You are all in my prayers.
Monique Latimer
July 22, 2012
My heart goes out to the family, my she rest in peace.
Jackqyln Clark
July 22, 2012
My prayers goes out to family. Sylvia will be miss, but not forgotten. Mrs. Jackqyln Clark (Harrisburg,Pa)
Adolphus Collins
July 22, 2012
My she rest in peace
Bonnie Worthman
July 22, 2012
May God Bless and be with Ms.Sylvia's family. She was a great inspiration to the Black Community!
Yinka
July 22, 2012
To the Family of Mrs. Sylvia Woods...I want to express my heartfelt sympathy to you at the time. Ms. Sylvia Woods created and left a legacy for you and generations. You are in m thoughts and prayers.
Margaret Fowler Brooks
July 22, 2012
I was at Sylvia's night before her passing. Talked with her daughter about her Mom's love for Carolina. My prayers are with your Family at this time.
July 22, 2012
With Heartfelt Sympathy, Love and Prayer
Rev. Moses & Christine OP Brown
Hemingway, South Carolina 29554
Mrs. Emma -Chestnut Richardsson
July 21, 2012
May Gods blessing keep flowing to all. God gave rest from her labor.
Keep the finest tridition going I know Mrs. Sylvia would want it this way. I am over the top for her peach cobbler mix.I know you all has found peace and comford in God. Be Bless
Reginald Ballard
July 21, 2012
My pray is that God richly bless each of you in your time of breavement. I have tried some of Mrs. Woods collard greens!
Mary S. Graham
July 21, 2012
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Kimtraila Williams
July 21, 2012
To Ms. Woods Family,
May the blessings of love be upon you, May its peace abide with you, May its essence illuminate your heart, Now and forever more Blessing.
God Bless,
Kimtraila Williams
Ardelia Huntley-Wilson
July 21, 2012
My heartfelt sympathy to Sylvia children and grandchildren. She will be miss, but her love will linger on in our hearts and the food.
Joann Miller
July 21, 2012
Mrs.Sylvia, I will always remember your smile.........You are a rare GEM.
Victoria Shuman
July 21, 2012
To the Family of Mrs. Sylvia Woods: I cannot begin to tell you how deeply sorry I am. My daughter "Haley" brought me her cookbook entitled "Silvia's Family Soul Food Cookbook." I was sitting on my bed a few nights ago reading it as I have done several times. I just love the stories as well as the recipes. May God keep and comfort you always!:) Victoria Shuman
gloria viorge
July 21, 2012
Rest In Peace Sylvia Woods. I baked your pies all the time. God Bless You and my condolences to the family.
Inetta Cooper
July 21, 2012
Peace and comfort. Inetta and Laurie Cooper Hemingway/Columbia South Carolina
Olinka green
July 21, 2012
Love from Texas.
JACQUELYN JONES
July 21, 2012
MAY GOD FOREVER BLESS YOU AND THE REST OF THE FAMILY.KEEP THE GOOD COOKING GOING ON & ON ;;;;
July 21, 2012
Please accept my sincere condolences during this time of your loss. Those who die God keeps in his memory because " they are precious in his eyes." (Psalms 116:15) With deepest sympathy.
Joyce Moore
July 21, 2012
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Showing 1 - 100 of 241 results
Make a Donation
in Sylvia Woods's name
How to support Sylvia's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Sylvia Woods's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored