Sylba Russell Lathem

Sylba Lathem (Russell), age 96, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2025, in Richardson, Texas. A woman of remarkable resilience and many talents, Sylba lived a full and vibrant life that touched the hearts of all who knew her.
Born on January 20, 1929, in Silverton, Texas, Sylba was raised in Floydada, where she graduated with the Class of 1947 from Floydada High School. Her lifelong commitment to learning and service led her to pursue a career in healthcare, earning her Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) certification from Petijean Mountain Technical College. Over the years, she wore many professional hats-working as a commercial artist, dairy farmer, and LVN-each role reflecting her diverse skills and tireless work ethic.
Sylba's life journey took her from the plains of Texas to Bee Branch, Arkansas, before settling in Wills Point in 1991. In 2003, she married Riley Crouch in Wills Point, where they built a life together rooted in faith and community. She was an active member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Terrell and also participated in the Rebekah Lodge.
Family was at the heart of Sylba's world. She is lovingly remembered by her sons Marion Lyle Lathem and Jerry Lathem and his wife Bonnie; grandchildren Cassie James; Lyle Lathem Jr. and his wife Maria; Jerry Michael Lathem and his wife Grace; Daniel Paul Lathem and his wife Erica; and Amanda Hanlon and her husband Jay; along with many great-grandchildren as well as two great-great-grandchildren.
She now joins those who preceded her in rest: her husband Riley Crouch; former husband Ray Lathem; parents Carl Alexander Russell and Maud Alice Tindle; sisters Vergie Slough and Bonnie Rasher; twin brother Henry Russell; brother Wayne Russell; and grandsons Andrew Ray Lathem and Russell Lathem.
Sylba had a creative spirit that found expression through music and craftsmanship. A gifted organist with a love for melody, she also enjoyed sewing and reading. Her artistic flair extended to creating dolls that she sold with pride. Her home was always filled with warmth-and often shared with beloved dogs-especially her cherished companion "Little-Bit."
Known for her sassiness, sharp mind, and unyielding determination to keep learning new things even into her later years, Sylba embodied strength wrapped in grace. She was deeply family-oriented and left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to share in her life.
May Sylba's memory bring comfort to all who knew her and serve as a lasting reminder of a life defined by love, perseverance, creativity, and faith. A memorial service to celebrate Sylba's life is scheduled for Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Terrell Seventh-Day Adventist Church, located at 315 Wall St., Terrell, Texas.