Obituary of Alice B. Sykes

Alice B Sykes, Alice passed away suddenly but peacefully at age 76 in her home on October 6, 2021.

Born to Grace and James Brodie in 1945, Alice graduated from Churchville High School and obtained a bachelor’s degree from Brockport State University. Alice taught 1^st grade for several years. In 1967 she married Gerry Sykes and raised two children; Jane and Andy. Alice had a strong faith and was active in her church. She worked as the church Educational Director for several years and coordinated the church rummage sale many times, always dressing up in fun costumes to promote participation. 

Alice was a loving wife to her husband of 33 years Gerald K Sykes, DVM. She managed the business operations for his Veterinary Clinic and understandingly supported his obsession for Golf. She and Gerry went on many adventures together including a 5-week RV trip across the country with their kids in 1977, yearly trips to Myrtle Beach, and other explorations around the country. When Gerry got sick, Alice provided dedicated care and love to her husband for many years before his death in 1999.

Alice was a nurturing, devoted, and proud mother.  She was selfless with her children, Jane Dickinson and Andy Sykes, spending many hours sewing homemade Halloween costumes, baking custom birthday cakes, volunteering at school, and ensuring her (begrudging) children finished their homework, completed summer school worksheets, did extra reading, and experienced the joy of music by having them take piano lessons. 

As a grandmother, she provided unconditional love and made her grandchildren Robbie and Sara Dickinson, Shannon and Liam Sykes, feel special and supported; not to mention she spoiled them at every opportunity.

Alice had a love for life and enjoyed dancing, baking, playing games, ‘retail therapy’, cheering for the Syracuse basketball team, and spending time with family and friends. With an insatiable appetite for sweets her grandkids learned it was best to hide their Halloween candy when she came to visit lest it would “disappear.”  Anyone, who knew Alice understood what a selfless and devoted friend she was. She always wanted to make others feel welcome and comfortable no matter the situation and sought to help them during their times of need. Alice was a kind, gracious, fiercely devoted person with an unwavering faith in God and deep love for her family and friends. Alice will be immensely missed and never forgotten.   

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 23, 2021 at 1:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church of Brockport, 35 State St., Brockport. Reception to follow. Interment will be held privately. 

Memorials preferred to First Presbyterian Church of Brockport, 35 State St, Brockport, NY 14420 or the Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.org.