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Kay Sykes Obituary
Chesapeake - Kay Prince Sykes died peacefully in her home on Easter Sunday. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl R. and Evelyn M. Prince.
She is survived by her four children, Scott Holland, Barry Sykes, Monte Sykes (wife Yai) and Kim Sykes; a brother, Wayne Prince (wife Carole); three lovely granddaughters, Caroline, Savannah and Noel and extended family, Etheleen Ward, Walter Ward, Virginia Dare Matthews and Phil Jackson.
She attended William & Mary and ODU where she earned a BA and a MS. She taught for 46 years, mostly at Western Branch High, where she was rewarded with the "Teacher of the Year" twice. She had great success in drama and forensics and won honors on the local and state levels. She was known for her direction of musicals. Kay loved the arts and dance and excelled at both. She appeared in numerous local plays including playing Big Mama in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" at the Smithfield Little Theater. Kay was in the Living Legends and the Virginia Shaggers Hall of Fame.
She had many friends from Myrtle Beach to New York City. Kay had a passion for helping young girls in scholarship pageants. She worked with Miss Virginia and Miss America pageants during her lifetime. She loved and admired the "Hurrah Players" and Hugh Copeland. Kay traveled with them to New York and other destinations for over 30 years and it would do her heart good for donations to go to the "Hurrah Players".
In closing, the family would like to thank a very special friend, an angel Judy Swope, for her love and kindness.
A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 4, in Sturtevant Funeral Home, Portsmouth Blvd. Chapel. Burial will be in Olive Branch Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. www.SturtevantFuneralHome.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Kay Sykes
Crystal Gause-Hively
May 5, 2024
Not a day goes by that I don't think of Ms Sykes and all the lessons she taught all us rowdy crazy kids in her Freshman drama class. By the time we were upperclassmen, we were ready for success, excelled in a Forensics category (or 2), ready for the world. We all miss you dearly.
Craig Jackson
March 27, 2023
It was very interesting that this popped up in my memories this morning. I have recently done a career change and have gone into teaching. As such, I have been trying to developing my own teaching identity and style. I found myself a few days ago sitting in front of my class at the beginning and saying "okay folks let me have your attention please." with my reading glasses. I took notice that it was the second time I found myself taking on the habits of former teacher in the last few weeks.
Judith Walston-Henderson
November 27, 2020
I’m one of Mrs. Sykes former students from Norview High School. I was just talking about her on Facebook as one of my favorite teachers. I’m sixty five years old now but I still have memories of what a wonderful person she was to talk to and how very interesting she made learning. God rest her beautiful soul.
Sandy Hutchinson
March 31, 2020
I found a picture the other day with Kay that made me laugh and reminded me of how much fun we had together. We had sneaked away from work during lunch...again.... and we took a picture together with Santa Claus. oh, what fun... I keep a picture of Kay in my office at church.
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Bernie Kirsch
April 27, 2014
It has been more than a year since we gathered to memorialize Kay after her death.
She remains in my thoughts as a wonderful woman who lighted a candle for us to help navigate life.
She will remain forever in my heart.
Sandi Hutchinson
April 9, 2013
Although several days have passed, I still find her passing hard to believe. I know that God will fill that void, but it has been so hard to release my dear friend Kay. But now, I must. She is free of her pain and for that I can rejoice. So glad to have seen her the day before. She will always be a part of the best memories of my life. We had a great time. What a friend and confidant. We laughed and giggled like teenagers! She was loved by many whose lives were better for having known her. God bless her family. Hugh, Judy, Margaret....God Bless.
April 8, 2013
She pushed all of us to excel beyond our expectations. She touched so many of us to exceed our personal expectations. There's not a day that passes that I find myself using what she instilled in me.
Jim Farmer
Norfolk, VA
Barry Graham
April 6, 2013
Kay Sykes is one of the reasons why I became a teacher. She was one of the "greats" during the glory days at Norview High. Thanks Mrs. Sykes. You were well loved.
Lindsey Carey
April 5, 2013
Thoughts go out to Kay's family and love ones.
Kim Brown(Allison)
April 4, 2013
so sorry to hear of this...mrs. Skyes was an awesome teacher as well as a friend..heaven was blessed with an angel
April 4, 2013
so sorry for your lost but Kay was a great person and a mentor to my 2 kids they always looked to her and she made them follow there dreams you will be missed jensen family.
Jeff Bunn
April 4, 2013
I will miss Kay. She was a wonderful teacher and talented lady. Keeping the family in my prayers!
Corey Smith
April 4, 2013
Kay once told me I was a "rabble-rouser". I loved her for it. I wore that as a badge of honor because she taught me how to use being a rabble-rouser for betterment and good.
She gave me roles that forced me well outside of my comfort zone but never gave me a task or role that she didn't believe I could do. She taught me how to be a charmer and to find my personality.
She relied on me while under her tutelage and it helped me. If I let my potential down she told me, in no uncertain terms and directed me to what needed to be done.
She helped me to go places I didn't think I could. In this regard she is my favourite teacher.
April 4, 2013
We were lucky to have Kaye as our "Big Mama" in Cat @ SLT. She gave it her all . . .
Joe Grogan
April 4, 2013
I lived 5 hours from Kay and only got to see her once a year at the Miss Virginia pageant. For many years I always looked forward to our visit, it was always very special to me because Kay was such a special person. She never failed to inspire and lift me up, with lots of laughs as well. Words cannot express how very much I will miss Kay Sykes. Much Love, Joe Grogan
Louise Brinkley
April 4, 2013
Sorry for your family loss of a very vibrant and talented lady. She was a wonderful traveling companion to many, as well as myself and will truly be missed. Louise Brinkley
e s
April 4, 2013
Ms. Sykes was my drama teacher at Western Branch - loved her and her class. Enjoy the other side!
wanda rose
April 3, 2013
I just want to add another message to my friend Kay and her family... I was there tonight at the viewing and, I felt more like family than friend. I know all the family and her children as though we are family and I miss her as such.. Love you Kim, Monte, and Barry.. Please call me if you need me..
April 3, 2013
SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS TO YOUR FAMILY, LINDA SMALL AN FAMILY
Dane Jones
April 3, 2013
Thank you Kay Prince Sykes for pushing me to be my very best and for giving me the tools I needed to make it in the NYC fashion/arts scene. I'm so glad that I had you as a teacher and you will be greatly missed.
April 3, 2013
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
April 3, 2013
She was a very kind person I knew her I high school. Sorry for your loss. Darlene Hayden Knopp
Vicki Keller
April 3, 2013
I never met her family. But I enjoyed her so much and will miss her at Marion's parties. Condolences to her family.
Daphne Hoffman
April 3, 2013
Ms. Sykes was an amazing instructor! Her ability to draw the best from you, even when you weren't aware you had more to give, was uncanny. Her love of the arts students live on. She will be greatly missed. God bless her friends, family, and loved ones during this difficult time. How lucky I was to have known and loved her!
April 3, 2013
Scott, Barry, Monte, Kim and families, it was a joy to have known your mother in the earlier years as students at Old Dominion University and later as educators at Western Branch High. She was fun-loving and hard-working with a kind and generous spirit. I, too, will miss her. She truly was an inspiration to the people she knew from all walks of life. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Linda Culpepper
Eddie Dalton
April 3, 2013
you will be greatly missed.
William Blow
April 3, 2013
Thank you for believing in me and giving me the chance to have fun on stage. You will be sorely missed.
Susie Hartung
April 2, 2013
Well done good and faithful servant! Our family was blessed beyond words by having Kay in our lives. God bless you all.
Angela Haywood
April 2, 2013
Mrs. Sykes you will be missed by all. I'll never forget the wonderful memories of being in your drama classes and having you direct us onstage. You were tough, but sincere, and never gave up on anybody. To her family - I am so sorry for your loss. She was truly amazing. You will all remain in my thoughts and prayers.
April 2, 2013
sad to hear.... So sorry for your loss.
michelle oliver stevens
Tracey Denius
April 2, 2013
Barry and family...Im so sorry for your loss. Kay was the greatest woman ever....she will be truly missed by so many. A true inspiration to all.
Jo Ann Stafford
April 2, 2013
Kay will be missed, she was a lovely lady and the Virginia Beach Shag Club will miss seeing her. My thoughts & prayers with the family and many friends that Kay had.
Craig Jackson
April 2, 2013
I remember Ms. Sykes giving me and a lot of others opportunities to excel when others had given up. She certainly gave a lot of students reason to complete their secondary education and something too look forward too. Her talents always exceeded and she will be missed.
Brian Jones
April 2, 2013
I have fond memories of Kay. She was the "Cool mom" in the neighborhood. I wish the family and her friends comfort during this time of loss.
April 2, 2013
My deepest sympathies to Kay's family & her many friends.
Sharon Comer
Michael Kitchens
April 2, 2013
I wish I could find the right words to say how much you are missed by your WB family. I may not have been one of your students, but I know many fellow schoolmates who were inspired by you. Ms. Sykes, my thoughts are with your family.
Heather Mathews Watkins
April 2, 2013
Our family will surely miss Kay. My thoughts and prayers are with her immediate family and everyone else who knew her.
Rachel (Gordon) Phillips
April 2, 2013
I was privileged to have had Ms. Sykes in my life. She gave me guidance at a time in my life that I really needed it, and I can thank her for the confidence I have in myself to this day. She was an amazing woman. Those that knew her know just how special she was!! My prayers are with her family, and I know that there is another angel on our side now.
Harlen and Vicki Gudger
April 2, 2013
Our deepest sympathy to Kay's family. We loved getting to know and spend time with her at the Miss America Pageant. I can't remember laughing so hard. She was a mentor and inspiration to many young women in the Miss America Pageant system and to her numerous students. Our world is a better place because she was in it.
Kim Coie
April 2, 2013
I remember Kay Sykes as a dedicated teacher with a great artistic flair. Hats off to her for a fabulous teaching career.
Noel McCue
April 2, 2013
My first recollection of Kay was seeing her as a majorette on the football field during half time at Cradock High School. I actually met her as a teacher at Deep Creek High School. It was my first day of teaching for Chesapeake, and we pulled up in front of school at the same time. She introduced herself, askd if I were a new teacher, and told me she would introduce me to the other faculty members. Having Kay as my friend made all the difference in the world in being able to settle into my new career. I have known her since that day, and she continued to make those around her feel welcome. She was a very talented, bright, and creative person who will be missed greatly. May she rest in peace.
Patricia Archibald
April 2, 2013
Knowing Kay for almost thirty years showed me what a devoted teacher should comprise.
She was a true "fashionista," along with her fellow fashion model friend, Sandy Hutchinson!
I'll never forget our participation in Jean Ballance's 50th Soiree. That's where I first really met Kay.
I'll always treasure a crocheted blanket she made for my first born in 1987.
I could go on and on...
"Come to me all ye who are heavy laden and I will give you rest."
April 2, 2013
Our thought and prayers are with you during this time. She touched so many peoples lives!
Tabitha Murray
April 2, 2013
It doesn't seem real, but I realize it is. I just cannot believe my biggest mentor through High School is gone. If I could go back in time, I would have loved to see her in one of her plays in Smithfield. Kay you truly were an inspiration to me and many others and will be missed dearly! xoxo Kim, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!
Dominick Fink
April 2, 2013
Ms.Kay will forever be in my heart. She changed my life & molded me into the young lady I am today.She never stopped believing in her girls & encouraged us to stand up for what meant the most to us. Ms Kay was truly remarkable & I will never forget the fun times & secrets we shared. She was so much more than a mentor, friend or coach. She was a mother to me. My deepest condolences to her family & all who loved her.Her memory will live on forever
Shakiya Whitaker
April 2, 2013
R.I.P. to my favorite High School Teacher! The passion and energy I now have for my Creative mind came from you. You will be missed! c/o 2000 WBHS
Ken Grow
April 2, 2013
Ms. Sykes knew how to turn seeds that needed nurturing and light into a fantastic array of beautiful flowers. She was especially good in picking out the wallflowers that needed a push in to the limelight. She made my life exciting and opened a world of delight for me. I will forever be grateful to her teaching, instruction and motivation. Prayers to family and friends.
Paul Griesbach
April 2, 2013
Scott, Barry, and family sorry to hear about your Mom she was a really awesome lady to have in the neighborhood. Always encouraging. She will be missed!
Diane Withers
April 2, 2013
To each of you her loved ones I send my deepest sympathy. Yet, her memory and gifts to her students flourish. My daughter and many of her friends were truly touched by her gift and has made their lives enriched by her guidance. My prayers are with you all.
ronnie thomas jr.
April 2, 2013
she was excellent drama teacher. she made sure her students had fun learing the theater. there would never be another one like her.
Shelby Willis
April 2, 2013
Kim:God bless you & your family in the loss of your Mom.
Bernie Kirsch
April 2, 2013
Ernest Dowson writes...They are not long, the weeping and the laughter, love and desire and hate: I think they have no portion in us after we pass the gate.
They are not long, the days of wine and roses: Out of a misty dream our path emerges for a while, then closes within a dream.
_____________________________________
My deepest sympathy to those who loved and have lost this dear woman who brightened our pathways through life.
The Mainello Family
April 2, 2013
Barry, friends, and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of you mourning the loss of
Kay.
Cheryl Lyons (Allen)
April 2, 2013
Kay Sykes was my drama teacher at Deep Creek High School in 1966-1967. She was a wonderful mentor and loved by all her students. I am very sad to learn of her passing. Kay, may God bless and keep you in his loving arms.
LeaAnne Creekmore
April 2, 2013
Barry and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. She was a great person and touched so many!! She will be missed! Love and prayers to you all in this difficult time.
Diane Allen Hough
April 2, 2013
In addition to being my most inspirational teacher (1966-1969), she was my advocate and my friend. She had a strong impact on my life's direction. DCHS Class of 1969
Paul Bennis
April 2, 2013
Definitely the most significant and influential teacher I ever had, and one of the most wonderful people I ever met. She changed my life and will be missed.
Morgan Fussell
April 2, 2013
Mrs.Sykes will be greatly missed. I am greatful to have had the privilege to be in her class at WBHS. Alot of great memories came right from her class,I took alot of her teachings with me when I moved to another school and participated in their Drama department. I wish the family all the best and my prayers are with you all.
Krystal Lee
April 2, 2013
Rest in peace Ms. Sykes. You were the greatest drama teacher of all
April 2, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Pam Farraher
Crystal Gause-Hively
April 2, 2013
Mrs Sykes taught me everything I know about drama and forensics. I won my first trophy under her direction. I love you and will miss you always. The greatest teacher at Western Branch.
Sam Wiley
April 2, 2013
What a wonderful lady you were even though at the time I probably didn't see it...you were a rock for me during some crazy times at Norview High school from 1980-1982 and the best teacher and mentor that I ever had. Your early influence helped me be the man I am today. God bless you in heaven.
Anita Matson Monroe
April 2, 2013
Mrs. Sykes was one of the best teachers at Norview High in the early 80s. Fun-loving, caring, inspirational - we loved her. Prayers and sweet memories for her family as they mourn for her.
Amanda Wood
April 2, 2013
Peace and prayers...a many of an afternoon spent at WBHS.
Becky Insley-Rooney
April 2, 2013
Barry,
So sorry for your loss! Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Becky Insley Rooney
Paul Woodard
April 2, 2013
Kim, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Kay will surely be missed by numerous people.
Robert Stephens
April 2, 2013
Sorry to hear of your loss. She was a wonderful teacher and will be missed.
Judy Smith
April 2, 2013
Kim, Monte, Barry and Wayne: Kay was a good friend and wonderful travelling partner. We have spent the past 15 years rooming together in Myrtle Beach. It will never be the same without her to laugh with, sometimes cry with and just have fun with. We have shared many great hours of talking and confiding in each other. I will miss my beach partner walking on the sand in Kitty Hawk and KDH. Kay was a wonderful person and I will miss her greatly. She is now a angel watching over us. If I can be of any help, please do not hesitate to call me. My love to your family.
Wanda Rose
April 2, 2013
Kay was a great friend and will be sadly missed by alot of people.. I just want to say that she was a dedicated mother and loved her children very much. Kim the last few times I talked to her she talked about how much you had helped her through this time of illness.. And her words to me were this, "Kim has been a big help to me, I don't know what I would have done without her". I am sorry for you alls loss.. love Wanda
Linda Bull
April 2, 2013
I was so sorry to hear of Kay's passing. She was talented, fun-loving, and giving. To her family, I offer my deepest sympathy; treasured memories will remind you of how much she loved you all. Among her friends, there will always be memories and anecdotes of a life fully lived.
"Let perpetual light shine upon her."
Cindy Draper-Thomas
April 2, 2013
Wayne, I was so sorry to hear about your sister. I remember Kay was always the life of the party, bubbly and just enjoyed life! I know she will be missed dearly. Please know you and the family are in my prayers!
T F
April 2, 2013
My deepest condolences to the family of Ms Skyes.
She was such an inspiration to myself and many of my classmates. After I heard of her passing, I read the comments of my classmates as they rejoiced in the memories of our inspiration in high school. She gave us strength and courage to step outside of our comfort zones. She taught us to have a voice with our movement and words. She took a group of students that didn't mesh in the "real" high school world and made us work together for a common purpose. She showed us that we are all the same just with very different talents. She gave me many of my most cherished memories. Thank you for sharing Ms. Skyes and her loving personality and words of wisdom with us for so many years. May you rest forever in peace Ms. Sykes.
Didiama Ra
April 1, 2013
You changed my life. I'm forever greatful. You are an amazing influence. You are sorely missed. Prayers and love to the family.
Latasha Rodgers
April 1, 2013
she was a very good and caring teacher to all of her students. she really made sure they had a smile when leaving her classroom. she will be truly missed.
Karen Sarach-Connor
April 1, 2013
Barry and family I'm sorry for your loss! What a wonderful woman and teacher. She inspired so many! Comfort and peace to you and your family!
Lee Phillips
April 1, 2013
She is loved by so many especially all of the students she taught. She believed in us and told us to follow our dreams. She will be missed.
gail Strader
April 1, 2013
Love & Prayers
Mary West
April 1, 2013
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
April 1, 2013
Kay was fun to be around. She made others happy. Judy M. Little
Linda Carbo
April 1, 2013
I remember the fun times I had with Kay in Virgina, New York, Atlantic City and Las Vegas.....We laughed and enjoyed talking about the pageants with our friends Hugh, Jerry, Lisa, Linda and Margare. We all have so many memories we shared in Atlantic City, I was so sad to hear of her passing. It was a shock to all of us in New York. I will miss her very much.
Shelley Case
April 1, 2013
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
LuAnne Burch
April 1, 2013
What a wonderful human being...although I have not known Kay very long, it felt as if forever...a beautiful lady, both inside and out...I will keep her family in my prayers as you have lost a larger than life person!!! RIP my friend!
Janell Rardon
April 1, 2013
I was so very sad to receive news of Kay's passing. One word describes her influence on my life: re.markable. Kay spent hours and hours with me as I pursued the title of Miss Virginia. A true teacher, she selflessly gave so that I could chase my dream. My heart goes out to her dear children as they face the future without her endearing smile, vivacious personality, wise advice, and loving strength. She loved each of you so much. Thank you for sharing her with me. May God draw each and every one of you very close.
Otis Banks
April 1, 2013
Kay was more than a friend and more than a member she was family. A family member that I loved and cherished so deeply. I will forever remember our laughs and that our stage performances. You are a true light that will forever be lit in my life. Rest in Peace and know we will be "acting a fool together again someday". You are Love! Otis Banks
April 1, 2013
You are a amazing woman and you will be missed sending prayers to the family
Mary Sue and Phil Davis
April 1, 2013
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
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