Sylvia L. Niedzwiecki

Sylvia Niedzwiecki, born March 22, 1946 to parents Margaret and Aldebert Williams, passed away on January 6, 2026.

Sylvia grew up in Syracuse, New York, the second of 10 children, and naturally stepped into a caregiving role from an early age. As a teenager working at a local movie theater, she met Richard (Dick), the love of her life and devoted husband of more than 59 years. Early married life was spent as an Air Force wife and mother. She and Dick lived in Montana, Missouri, California and Guam before settling in Niceville, Florida in 1973 to raise their two children Mary and Richard Jr. (Dickey). Here they created countless cherished memories together.

Sylvia lived a life devoted to serving others. She worked at Okaloosa Walton Community College and Northwest Florida Sate College for over 25 years helping others seek and begin purposeful and fulfilling careers. Nothing brought her more happiness than seeing others thrive and knowing she had a hand in making their lives brighter. She was always one to "Give a hand up to those in need."

Sylvia served her community through the Niceville Jr. Women's club, being a Brownie and Girl Scout Leader, volunteering at Plew Elementary School, delivering Meals on Wheels, and being an active member of the Chamber of Commerce. She was one of the founding members of the Niceville Mullet Festival, where she played a vital role in attracting talented artists. She continued as a member of the Mullet Festival Committee for over 40 years. Sylvia was a devoted member of Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church and was always supported by her Catholic faith.

She loved fashion and had an extraordinary sense of style that she showcased at her clothing store "California Casuals" in the 1980's. Sylvia was also a talented artist and continued to take classes throughout her adult life in acrylic and watercolor painting. She loved dogs and enjoyed spoiling them. Her family often referred to her as the "dog whisperer" as she became the favorite human of her family's dogs. During the holidays, she happily hosted family and friends in a home sparkling with Christmas decorations.

Above all, Sylvia cherished her family. She delighted in enriching their lives with memorable trips and thoughtful gifts. Her family famously remembers "Mimi's Adventure Camps" complete with custom matching t-shirts and explorations of Disney World, Upstate New York, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

At her core, Sylvia was a generous woman, and all of us are richer for having known her.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, and her siblings: Cindy Baunee, Maggie Conger, Kevin Williams, Harry Williams, Alan Williams and Mary Schoen. She is survived by her husband Dick; her children: Mary (and Dave) Adams and Richard (and Dominique) Terens; four grandchildren- Lawrence, Michael, Pierce and Kristen- as well as siblings: Gladys Brutcher and Tina Trimble.

Her family would like to thank the many doctors and nurses who took great care of her during the last several years of her life.

A service is planned for January 24, 2026 at 11 am with visitation at 10 am at Heritage Gardens in Niceville. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National Kidney Foundation.