Joseph Edward Sylvester

Joseph Edward Sylvester, Jr., lovingly known as Joe, passed away at the age of 73 on September 15, 2025, in Cyril, Oklahoma. He was born on March 17, 1952, in Chickasha, Oklahoma, to Joseph and Colleen (Clark) Sylvester.

Joe grew up in Cyril and graduated from Cyril High School in 1970. A proud Cyril Pirate, he played both football and basketball and earned recognition as an honor student. His hardworking spirit showed early, and he carried it with him throughout his life.

After high school, Joe began is career as a lineman with Caddo Electric in Binger before moving on to The Refinery in Cyril. In 1986, he began what would become a long and successful career with the Department of Defense at Fort Sill. He worked his way through several roles-starting as a high-voltage electrician, later conducting manpower studies, and ultimately retiring as the Chief of Information Assurance, serving as an Information Technology Specialist. His career path reflected not only his knowledge and skill, but also his determination and leadership.

As much as Joe valued his work, his true joy came from family. He was always happiest in the stands, cheering on his sons, and later all of his grandchildren in whichever sport they played. He rarely missed a game and was especially proud to be a loyal fan of OU women's softball. At home, he could often be found tinkering in his shop or riding his mower. Family members fondly referred to him as the "Neighborhood Watch," since he kept a close eye on everything happening around him.

Joe's kindness, steady presence, and humor will be deeply missed. He is survived by his wife, Tomi Yager; his son, Justin Sylvester, and Justin's children, Joey, Taylor, and Matthew; his daughter-in-law, Amy Sylvester, and her children, Hayley and Reese; his nephew, Kyler Wilson; his sister, Tana Sylvester; his niece, Canda Goombi and husband Dakota; his nephew, Bradley Alexander and wife Sarah; and great-nieces and nephews Jakobie, Kenzie, Nakoa, Stella, Shai, Adley, and Quincey, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Colleen Sylvester; his son, Benjamin Scott Sylvester; and his sister, Candace Michelle Sylvester.

A funeral service celebrating Joe's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Fletcher Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Chad Wollenberg officiating. He will be laid to rest at Celestial Gardens in Cyril, Oklahoma, under the direction of Fletcher Funeral Home. Visitation will take place on Thursday evening at the funeral home from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Joe will be remembered as a hardworking man, a proud Pirate, a loyal OU softball fan, and, above all, a loving husband, dad, brother, and Papa. His laughter, warmth, and love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

We will miss his smile, his laughter on the mower, and his voice cheering from the stands. His love will guide us always.