Sylvia Crandall Nelson

Sylvia Crandall Nelson, 81, of Monroe, NC, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital in Charleston, surrounded by her loving family as she entered eternal rest.

Born on April 26, 1944, in Jamestown, NY, Sylvia was the second daughter of Harland and Goldie Crandall-arriving a confident twelve minutes before her twin brother Alvin. Sylvia admired her older sister Doris, often looking to her for guidance and inspiration, even as she shared moments of playful mischief with her twin brother Al.

Affectionately known as "Syl," she spent her formative years on the Crandall Dairy Farm on Buffalo Street Extension, where her deep affection for animals first took root. Syl graduated from Falconer Central High School in 1962 and soon began working at the Jamestown Telephone Corporation. It was during a visit to a local filling station in Jamestown that she met the love of her life, Ronald Nelson. The two were married on July 1, 1967, and celebrated their honeymoon at the Northern 300 race in Trenton, NJ-marking the beginning of a shared affection for racing that would last a lifetime.

The couple spent the next eight years in Jamestown, building a family and making memories with close friends. In 1975, Syl, Ron and young sons, Lee and Andrew, made a bold move to Sumter, SC, in support of Ron's career. While living in Sumter, Syl enjoyed bowling nights with her circle of loyal league friends and cherished time spent with her family - including the pets she persuaded Ron were just what the kids needed. After 19 years in Sumter, Syl and Ron relocated once more-this time to Monroe, NC-where they would eventually retire.

Syl was known for her practicality, steady demeanor, and selfless nature. Her calm presence offered comfort and reassurance to those around her. She had a quiet, understated sense of humor that often caught you off guard. Even in the face of adversity, including her final battle, she carried herself with quiet courage, unwavering strength, and just enough humor to lighten the moment. Her love for her family was constant and unconditional, and she will be remembered as a grounded, loving mother, sister, grandmother, and friend.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald Nelson, and her brother, Alvin Crandall. She is survived by her sister, Doris (Kenneth) Williamson of Falconer, NY; her sons, Lee (Courtney) Nelson of Cochran, GA, and Andrew (Marianne) Nelson of Summerville, SC; her sister-in-law Donna Mendrick of Silver Spring, MD; and her grandchildren: Savannah, Reese, Parker, Campbell, Mary Harper, Reid, Charlie, Caroline, Grace, Elizabeth, Emma Claire, and Teddy. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who she loved very much.

A memorial service will be held later, with interment to follow at Allen Cemetery in Jamestown, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the V Foundation.

Arrangements by PARKS FUNERAL HOME, 130 W. 1st North Street, Summerville, SC 29483. www.parksfuneralhome.com