Sylvia Brents was born in Piqua, OH, on August 29,1938 to the late John and Violet Thomas. Her purpose was fulfilled and she was called home by God on June 24, 2026, at the age of 87.

Sylvia was a true believer in God and trusted him daily. She carried the scriptures in her heart, with the clearest expression of her faith being how she served her community and family.

Growing up in Piqua, Sylvia spent countless hours with her six siblings, often playing in the park across from their childhood home. Sylvia understood that scholastic achievements were going to be the foundation for helping her mission of serving people. After graduating from Piqua Central High School in 1956, she earned her bachelor’s in nursing from the Community Hospital School of Nursing in 1962. Sylvia worked at Piqua Hospital, Springfield Community Hospital, and Mercy Hospital until she found her favorite nursing role at the Clark County Health Department.

She was able to organize and educate through clinics, and people welcomed her into their homes during home visits. There she also made lasting friendships, but her favorite part was being able to work side by side as nurses, with her sister, Carol Edwards.

Shortly after completing nursing school, Sylvia met the love of her life Norman Lee Brents Sr. in 1962. A true love story that resulted in 59 years of marital bliss. He enthusiastically drove from Indianapolis, Indiana to Piqua, Ohio for over a year, purchased a home in Springfield, Ohio after he asked for her hand in marriage, then officially moved to Springfield, Ohio after they were married in August of 1965. Sylvia and Norman successfully raised 3 children, Cheryl, Diane, and Norman. While working Sylvia spent countless hours gardening, a love she shared with her sisters, Carol, Joanne, brother, David and her sister-in-law, Barbara Jean. She loved it so much she started a garden at the health department, continuing to spread and share her own brand of beauty. Sylvia was also well known for her generous heart. Not just because she was a nurse and cared so deeply for others, but the many ways she would support others. Sylvia would show up gaily to celebrate weddings, family gatherings, and showers. Often, to the delight of all, there would be a tin of her made from scratch chocolate chip cookies or her famous red velvet cake (to this day, no family member has successfully duplicated this cake).

Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, John and Violet Thomas; husband, Norman Brents Sr.; siblings, David, Fredrick, Joann, Carol, Harry, and Mark.

Sylvia leaves many to cherish her memories: her loving youngest sister, Carol Edwards; beloved children, Cheryl Turner (Michale Lee Turner Sr), Sabirah Muhammad and Norman Lee Brents Jr.; grandchildren, Arriane Scott (Jonathan Scott), Whitney Brents, Jahari Muhammad, Mashaya Brents, Raven Brents, Joshua Muhammad, Treasure Brents and great grandchildren, Nala Royalty Brents and Iceland Jade Brents, and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Friends, family and others whose lives were touched by Sylvia are invited to Robert C Henry Funeral Home 527 S. Center Street, Springfield OH 45506, Wednesday, July 1, 2026 for visitation 11 a.m. until the time of service at 12 noon. Burial in Rose Hill Burial Park.