Sylvia Maud Ward

1938 - 2025

Sylvia Maud Ward passed away November 13, 2025.She was born in in Passaic, NJ on May 25,1938 to Harry Otto Ward and Taimi Karlsson Ward. Sylvia grew up in New Jersey, British Columbia, and New York. She began her airline career with American Airlines in 1959 in Manhattan, continuing on with Mohawk Airlines and several mergers thereafter. She retired in 2001.

Sylvia described herself as a "dyed in the wool feminist" and was a fierce environmentalist. She played several leading roles in local theatre, was a talented classical pianist, and had a gift for creating beautiful gardens and landscapes. She loved sailing, music, art, was a voracious reader, loved her cats and dogs, and absolutely adored her barn swallows. Sylvia was a lifelong traveler, having been to 48 states, all throughout the Caribbean, as well as many countries in Europe.

She is survived by her daughter, Sandra Foote, her sister Cecilia Ward, her former husband Roderick Foote and his wife Janet who remained part of her family, along with a cherished sister in law, many loved nieces and nephews, and friends that she adored.

Special thanks to Tidewell Hospice of Lakewood Ranch, and the many wonderful caregivers of the last weeks who were, like most who met her, captivated by Sylvia's charm.

As a fierce supporter of homeless animals, a donation in her memory may be made to the Humane Society of Rome, NY on their website or by telephone.