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Sylvia Orman Obituary
passed away in her home at the age of 75. She was a graduate of West Phoenix High School and Northern Arizona University where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Fine Arts. She also received a Master of Arts degree in Art Education from Arizona State University. She taught art, design and photography at Central High School in Phoenix, Arizona from 1967 to 1992. Sylvia was passionate about teaching the creative arts and visual media. She was an inspiring mentor to the hundreds of students who sought her gentle guidance and encouragement. Her legacy is felt broadly by her students, friends and family who remember her beautiful spirit. Sylvia will be forever remembered by her brother and sister-in-law, John and Deidre Mangum, her sister, Sharon Mangum-Ricart, her nieces and nephews Sophie, John, Josh and Jeff, her great niece Ava and great nephews Matin, Max, and Jack. Sylvia cherished and held close to her heart many lifetime and new friends. She will be greatly missed at choir practice and the annual derby party. Sylvia was always dedicated to local philanthropies and education. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sylvia F. Orman Scholarship Fund in care of the ASU Foundation, 300 E. University Dr., Tempe, Az 85280.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Sylvia Orman
Sponsored by Stanley Tang.
Jill Dixon
September 12, 2018
Sylvia had a gift for connecting with people and finding the best in them. She inspired her students to see themselves as they could be, not necessarily how they are, and she illuminated the path that could get them to that bright future. She opened her students eyes to alternative possibilities and career paths that they might otherwise not have known existed or believed possible. She was the best kind of teacher - one that fostered hope. We all miss her.
N A
May 14, 2015
If not for the kindness and support of Mrs. Orman, I would not have survived high school.
Susan Romley Moranz
July 29, 2013
Sylvia Orman came into my life my sophomore year at CHS and truly help me find that inner artist in me. She was definitely paramont in my life. I know she touched many of us "lost souls" during that difficult time in our lives.
She will truly be missed but not forgotten.
Meria Stapley
August 21, 2012
Thank you Mrs. Orman for being such an inspiration to so many of us. You will be sorely missed! Much love to your family.
Mother and child (me)
Susan/ Susanne Jenkins/ Barrie
August 19, 2012
Sylvia was the only teacher who I went back to Central to touch base with for many, many years and even visited her at home from time to time. She combined a unique blend of adult mentor and personal friend; without compromising her place as an authority figure she was able to be the best friend many of her students ever had. She guided me to apply for the Scholastic Art Scholarship in 1969 when she was rather new at Central... no adult had shown support for my art work... I had never dared think of majoring in art in college... but she showed me that it was possible. To everyone's surprise but hers, I WON! Thinking of Sylvia reminds me that I have much work left to do to honor her memory. And I will...
Stan Tang
August 2, 2012
Because of Sylvia's guidance and encouragement, I became an artist, illustrator, cartoonist, and designer. I had Sylvia as a teacher, for four years at Central High and while a senior, worked on a project that ended up getting published into a book the following year in '79. I drew Sylvia as an angry cartoon character in the book "A Different Kind Of Boy", but in real life she was warm, funny, and just plain "awesome". I remember listening to her Olivia Newton John and Neal Diamond albums in class. Thanks for coming to my Scottsdale
CC Art Show closing at Paint On Pottery. You were the best art teacher! My condolences to her family and those whose lives
were touched by her spirit and commitment.
Susie Billingsley (Davis)
July 24, 2012
Ms. Orman had to be the best teacher I ever had and the class I couldn't wait to get to. She was a beautiful spirit. I will never forget her big smile and always positive words. I know that she influenced me in my early years to now be an artist.
Donna Gilbrech
July 9, 2012
It is often said that it is impossible to rate teachers because the "report card" for them cannot be assessed until 25 years or so has passed. The fact that so many of Sylvia's students - literally in school and those who gained the benefit of her wisdom and caring in her personal life - were great successes in living fulfilling lives is testimony to what a great teacher she was. The fact that so many of her students stayed in contact with her is a testimony to what a great person she was. She put her whole heart into whatever she did - teaching, helping, loving, bringing fun into all our lives. She will be sorely missed by Barbara, her family and the hundreds of grateful others whose life she changed for the better. Remember to honor her memory by hugging one another as she did so often.
Rest in peace, dear soul.............
Jan Clutter
July 6, 2012
I am saddened to learn that my contemporary and 1st cousin is no longer with us, but I smile in remembering her and in reflecting on the amazing life she led. She was a hoot to be around--always full of life and a sense of humor! We had great fun at our reunions and I enjoyed her company very much. She was so talented and left a great legacy. Blessings to John & Sharon and their families, and to Sylvia's partner, Barbara. Just know that you will meet once again in a far better place. Love ~ janice mangum clutter
Sheila Kollasch
June 26, 2012
It is true that teachers save lives. I believe that Sylvia saved mine. I was fortunate to have her stern guidance in high school and delighted to have known her in my adult life. She is one-of-a-kind and will be missed. Thank you, Sylvia.
Tina Brogdon(Clark)
June 26, 2012
Our deepest sympathies. I was a student at Central High and knew Sylvia-she was great..Our prayers and thoughts are with you all.
June 24, 2012
Sylvia will be missed very much. I knew her for 10 years and had many fun times. God rest her soul forever.
Love, Roxie
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