Sylvia Duzanson

Sylvia Urania Duzanson

November 25, 1943 – November 16, 2024

Sylvia Urania Duzanson, a beloved matriarch and beacon of love, strength, and resilience, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on November 25, 1943, in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic. Sylvia’s life was a masterclass in kindness, authenticity, and unwavering determination.

The second eldest of 12 siblings, Sylvia was born to Georgette Stanford and Samuel Thomas during a time of transition for her family, whose roots are deeply connected to the beautiful island of St. Martin. Raised by her aunt, Theodorine Duzanson-Shoy aka Auntie Lucia, alongside her sister Minerva and first cousins Louise, Hugo, Hely, Janet, Melinda and Dean. Sylvia’s childhood in the Dominican Republic laid the foundation for her profound love of family. Minerva, her closest sister and best friend, was a constant presence, and their bond transcended time and distance.

At just 17 years old, Sylvia took a courageous leap, immigrating to the United States and settling in Harlem with her Aunt Madeleine. With minimal English, she taught herself the language and secured a position as a patient transport worker at St. Clare’s Hospital in Manhattan. Her hard work and reliability led her to become an operating room scheduler, a role she held for 20 years. Later, she was recruited by one of the doctor’s at the hospital, Dr. James Fagan to work as a medical office assistant for his private medical Ophthalmology practice. Dr. Fagan and his wife, Myett treated Sylvia like family. After relocating to New Jersey, Sylvia continued her career in medical services, working at a local assisted living facility where her humor, compassion, and work ethic made her a beloved presence among residents and coworkers alike.

Sylvia spent 40 years in Brooklyn, living in neighborhoods such as Prospect Heights, Crown Heights, Flatbush, and Canarsie. Her home was a sanctuary, as she generously opened her doors to her family members relocating their lives to the United States. Her selfless nature, warmth and hospitality made everyone feel cared for and welcomed.

In 2006, Sylvia moved to Hillsborough, New Jersey, to be closer to her daughter Millie, son-in-law Michael, and grandchildren Denzel and Jasmine. Independence was deeply important to her, and Millie and her husband Michael added onto their home to give her a dedicated living space that became a space filled with love, laughter, and her legendary cooking.

Sylvia’s life was as vibrant as her spirit. She was the “Queen of Dominoes,” known for her quick wit, playful banter, and unmatched skill around the game table. The sound of dominos slamming on the table and competitive banter between her favorite domino partners—Hugo, Hely, and Poppy—while speaking Spanish is a cherished memory for her family. Whether playing blackjack at the casino or putting together complex jigsaw puzzles to frame as artwork, Sylvia approached life with joy and creativity. A devoted Mets fan, she cheered passionately, keeping her Dominican roots alive as her neighborhood was known for producing some of the best professional baseball players.

And who could forget Sylvia's legendary cooking? Her rice in all its variations, codfish cakes, and savory fish dishes, were a culinary masterpiece, always in high demand at every gathering. Sylvia could taste a dish once and replicate it to perfection, often elevating it beyond the original.

More than her many talents, Sylvia will be remembered for her humor, strength, and boundless generosity. She had a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life, leaving a trail of new friendships wherever she went. Her positivity was infectious, her laughter unforgettable, and her advice timeless. She lived by the Serenity Prayer, embracing life’s challenges with courage and wisdom.

Sylvia’s greatest love was her family. As a devoted single mother to Millie, she gave her daughter a life filled with love and security. She cherished her grandchildren, Denzel and Jasmine, and found immense joy and pride in their accomplishments. Sylvia cherished the honor of serving as a motherly and grandmotherly figure to Daniel Lesi, Esther Lesi, Jeremy Peterson, Alexandra Gil, Camille, Alfa and Ayana Jackson, embracing each of them with unwavering love and guidance.

Sylvia is survived by her daughter, Millie Duzanson Baptiste; her son-in-law, Michael; her grandchildren, Denzel and Jasmine; her siblings, Lea, Marcellin, Irma, Gisele, Dalless, Clemenceau, Cleone, Claudine and many extended family members and friends. She is predeceased by her mother, father, her sister Minerva and brothers Wallace and Maurice.

Sylvia Duzanson also leaves behind many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory. Though she is deeply missed, her strength, generosity and authenticity will forever inspire those who were blessed to know her.