Stephen F. Sylvia

Stephen Frederick Sylvia, beloved husband, father, son, and brother passed away suddenly at home on March 18th, 2026, at the age of 58. He was respected and admired by all who crossed paths with him.

Born in July 1967, to Frederick W. and Barbara M. Sylvia and raised in Bridgeville, DE until his graduation from Woodbridge High School. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware, a Master’s degree from Virginia Tech, and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Food Science from NC State University. This was followed by a long career in the field of food science. At the time of his death Stephen was employed by Nestlé as a Thermal Process Expert.

Stephen shared a devoted marriage with his wife Lori, since 2004, they built a beautiful life together. He became a doting father to his beloved daughter, Lilly, and he welcomed his four stepchildren into his home and heart as his own.

Family was paramount to Stephen, including endless talks with his brother and best friend Shawn. He loved to travel, often for work, but also enjoyed many vacations with family and friends. His favorite vacations were California wine trips, Jamaica, and Florida, where he and Lori had recently made their home together. Friends and family were always welcomed and often included gatherings for his home cooked meals, Euchre games, and sharing his favorite wines.

Those who knew Stephen will remember his generous spirit, his dry and witty humor, and the quiet strength that grounded those around him. Work colleagues remember him fondly mentioning that the impact he left was lasting and profound. Quoting them; “You can meet some people hundreds of times and feel no impact at all, while others permanently become part of your way of thinking. Stephen was that person.” Though often unassuming, he was always listening, and when help was needed, he would step in with a simple, “I got it.”

Stephen is survived by his wife Lori, beloved daughter Lilly, and his stepchildren, Amanda (Andrew) Truman, Jesse Novak, Gabriella Thorsen, Jonah Novak and step-grandson, Finn Thorsen. Parents, Fred and Barbara Sylvia. His beloved siblings, Shawn (Amanda) Sylvia, and Jason (Alli) Sylvia. Nephews Quinton, Evan, Zac and Ryan, parents Fred and Barbara Sylvia and parents-in-laws Butch and Judy Nordwall. Aunts Andrea (Tony) Simone, Cindy Moore (Mike Rovine). He is preceded in death by his sister Melissa, his grandparents Bernie and Hattie Sylvia, Andrew and Mary Moore, and his uncle Dale Moore.

A private burial service will be held on Friday March 27th followed by a Celebration of Life to be held in Sarasota Florida on Saturday March 28th.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers contributions be made to the Stephen F. Sylvia NC State Scholarship Fund or Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue in Lakewood Ranch, FL.