Associate Sylvia Martinez, June 15, 1934–March 5, 2024, Accepted December 27, 1992

Sylvia was educated in Chicago at Holy Family Grade School and St. Mary High School. She sustained relationships with BVMs nearly her whole life. Sylvia was married twice and dearly loved spending time with her family. When not volunteering in her parish or cooking for her family, she was often found sewing a piece of needlework or traveling. As Sylvia’s health diminished, she was able to live with her daughter Valerie, in La Grange, Ill.

In her letter supporting Sylvia’s acceptance as an affiliate, BVM Francilla Kirby wrote, “In her family relationships, in her church, in her workplace, Sylvia constantly reaches out to others with a love that is indeed freeing.” Sylvia noted in her application that she “enjoy[ed] the company of BVMs and what they stand for . . .  at BVM gatherings we encourage each other.”

In years past, Sylvia was often engaged in social justice activities with members of the Pray and Play Cluster in Chicago and enjoyed going to Salem for their annual retreats. She was also part of the Cross-town Cluster.

Sylvia is survived by her children Linda, Michael, Renee, Valerie, and Eric. She was preceded in death by her son Jack and husband Sam.

The funeral will be on March 22, 10:00 AM, at St. Cletus Church, 600 W. 55th St., LaGrange, Ill.  For those who wish to send a card to the family, the address is Valerie Sansone, 717 8th Ave., LaGrange, IL 60525-6711.