Sylvia Ray

Sylvia Ray, age 82, of Jackson, Michigan, passed peacefully at home on August 20, 2025. She was born March 22, 1943, in Middlesboro, Kentucky, to George and Addie Ray, and was lovingly raised by a special man she called "Daddy," Vern Robinson.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Bill Ray, and her son, James Michael Campbell. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters and sons-in-law, Tamara and David Stachowicz, and Arlene and Kevin Walsh; her beloved grandchildren and their families: James Warner (Kenneth), Michael Campbell and daughter Ryleigh, Ashleigh Warner, Josef (Alissa) Stachowicz and sons Kole and Wyatt, Kateri (Chuck) Petrie and children Taryn and Calum, and Devon Walsh (Abbey Ferguson) with children Brantley and Maisley. To her many great- grandchildren, she was simply "GiGi," a name she treasured.

Sylvia grew up in Appalachia before graduating from Centerline High School in the Detroit area. She spent several years in Anchorage, Alaska, and later made her home in Whitehall, Michigan, near family. Her final years were spent in Jackson, where she was lovingly cared for by her daughter Arlene.

A gifted gardener and homemaker, Sylvia passed down her love of canning, freezing, and cooking for her family. She had a knack for making much out of little, feeding everyone with warmth and abundance. Visitors to her home were always greeted with kindness and hospitality-"Can I get you a cup of coffee? Have you eaten?"

Known for her generous spirit, Sylvia was the type to give the proverbial "shirt off her back." Sometimes this meant trinkets, jewelry, furniture, or anything she thought might brighten your life. She taught by example the values of kindness, hospitality, and unconditional love. Her legacy lives on in the way she welcomed others, made strangers feel like family, and treasured the beauty of homemade gifts.

Per her wishes, her family held a living wake in her honor, where she delighted in a seafood feast lovingly prepared by her grandchildren, while her great-grandchildren played joyfully at her side.

No additional services will be held. In keeping with her wishes, please do not send flowers-she always said she would rather enjoy them while living. Instead, honor her memory by giving a homemade gift, embracing your family, and remembering her whenever you see a butterfly.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Elara Hospice for their compassionate care and support during Sylvia's final journey.