Sylvia M. “Trude” Vick died peacefully June 21, 2025, at the age of 78, surrounded by loved ones in her hometown of Ypsilanti, Michigan.

A proud daughter of Ypsilanti, Sylvia’s roots run deep in the community’s history, tracing her family lineage back to the African-Canadian communities of Chatham and Dresden, Ontario. Her heritage also links to the legacy of the Rev. Josiah Henson, the historical figure who inspired Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin. 

Sylvia graduated from Ypsilanti High School in 1964 and attended Eastern Michigan University, where she joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. She later built a long and respected career at the University of Michigan, retiring in 2011 from the Office of Government Relations. At age 65, she boldly stepped into entrepreneurship, founding SyLesTam K & Associates, which she continued to lead until her passing.

Her faith journey began at Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church and blossomed at M.O.R.E. Jesus Family Fellowship, where she served faithfully as a financial leader and dedicated member.

Those who knew Sylvia will remember her grace, humor, compassion and unwavering commitment to family and community. She never sought the spotlight, yet her presence lit up every room and left a lasting imprint on countless lives.

She is survived by her devoted daughters, Leslee Clerkley and Sylvia Copeland; her beloved granddaughter, Kiara Vann; and the anticipated arrival of her first great-grandchild.

She also leaves behind her brother, Anthony McKinley Vick I (Rosaline), and their children: Venoncia Hill, Veroncia Monford, and Anthony McKinley Vick II; and her sister, Karla Vick, and Karla’s children: LeAntoinette Bruce (Johnson), Sharde Huffman (Johnson), Paris Johnson, Jason Johnson, Brent Johnson, Vicc Johnson, MinJarro Johnson, and Olleta Vick.

Sylvia was a loving aunt to Michael Vick and Terry Vick, sons of her late siblings, as well as a cherished great aunt to a host of nieces and nephews.

Her lifelong connection with Janice Austin was more than a friendship — it was a true sisterhood that began when they were just 4 years old. Janice and her husband, Richard, later became godparents to Leslee Clerkley. Darle, whom Sylvia regarded as a son and who also served as godfather to Sylvia Copeland, will deeply treasure her memory. She leaves behind a host of cherished friends who were truly family in every sense.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde Augustus Saunders Vick Jr. and Sylvia Olleta Vick; her brother, Michael Vick; and her sister, Saundra Vick.

A Celebration of Life took place June 30. 

Though her earthly journey has come to a close, Sylvia’s spirit endures through the lives she touched. Her legacy of love, strength and faith will continue to inspire all who knew her.

— Submitted by Nie Family Funeral Home