Sylvia A. Lone, retired Sun Oil employee and Philadelphia Tribune staffer, dies at 79

Sylvia A. Lone, a dedicated Sun Oil employee, property manager, and Philadelphia Tribune staffer, passed away on September 19 at the age of 79.

Lone was a familiar presence at weddings, funerals, reunions, birthdays, and community gatherings. She generously volunteered with nurseries and VITAS Healthcare and was a passionate advocate for autism awareness. Sylvia faithfully served as a Sunday School superintendent, supporting and guiding children in their spiritual growth.

Born on October 5, 1944, she was affectionately known to family and friends as Sylvia, Aunt Sylvia, Syl, and Mommo-San. A lifelong Philadelphian, she was educated in the city’s public schools and graduated from Germantown High School in 1962.

Her deep faith was a cornerstone of her life. From her beginnings at Tindley Temple—where she accepted Christ as her personal Savior and worshiped alongside her grandmother and father—to her service at Church of the Redeemer Baptist Church and worship alongside her daughter at Salt and Light Community Church, Sylvia found great joy and fulfillment in her church family.

She also attended St. Phillips Baptist Church with her Aunt Ruth, where she forged a lifelong friendship with Mary Ann Weeks.

Professionally, Sylvia worked at Sun Oil Co. until her retirement. She then pursued a second career in property management, holding positions at Lincoln Greene and Scottish Rite House. Most recently, she joined the staff of the Philadelphia Tribune, continuing her dedication to serving others. Before her passing, she returned to South Philadelphia to reconnect with residents at Scottish Rite House.

Her family shared, “She treasured the unwavering support and devotion of her daughter, Toni, especially through her illness, and delighted in the companionship of her beloved granddog, Maele. She never met a stranger; everyone she encountered soon called her friend.”

Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene Seymore and Geneva Hook. She is survived by her daughter and a host of family members and friends.

Services will be held on Thursday, October 2, at Salt and Light Church, located at 5736 Chester Avenue. A viewing will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m.

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https://www.phillytrib.com/obituaries/sylvia-a-lone-retired-sun-oil-employee-and-philadelphia-tribune-staffer-dies-at-79/article_aad372dd-9d9e-4f3d-af20-7e9b9b93d1f1.html