Sylvia Law

With heavy hearts and fond memories, we acknowledge the passing of Sylvia Elnora Law, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, who left us peacefully at the age of 89. Sylvia departed this world on August 30, 2024, surrounded by her loving family and the warmth of the love sent to her from all those who knew and loved her. 

Born on November 24, 1934, Sylvia lived a life rich in love and creativity. As a young woman, she enjoyed bowling and participated in several bowling leagues. Later, her hands were always busy with crochet, card making, and jewelry making. She crafted more than just beautiful objects, she created memories resulting in lasting connections and joy for those around her. She loved ensuring that all her family members and friends received cards to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions. Her artistic talents were matched only by her unwavering commitment to her family and faith. She was an avid WNBA fan and loved watching all the games, but especially enjoyed her favorite team – the University of Connecticut Huskies. 

Having earned a Bachelor of Science degree from The Ohio State University, Sylvia worked as a dedicated social worker for the State of Connecticut for more than 20 years making a difference in the lives of countless individuals. Her compassion and dedication to helping others were a testament to her deep sense of empathy and her desire to make the world a better place. 

A life-long learner, Sylvia loved attending classes and learning about American history with a focus on the Underground Railroad through the Gillie Senior Community Center in northeast Columbus. She volunteered at the center at the front desk and as a librarian for the Central Ohio Underground Railroad Study Group; and created several photo journals chronicling the many tours she took with the group. 

Sylvia was a pillar of strength and love in her family. She leaves behind her devoted daughters, Sheryl Abernathy, Pickerington, OH, Letitia Stones, Lakeland, FL, Yvette Law, Southington CT, and her beloved sons, Donald (Lydia) Law, Louisville, KY, Jerry (Cheryl) Poindexter and Terry Poindexter, Columbus, OH, loving brother Robert Randolph Brown, Roanoke, VA, dear friends Sylvia Ashford and Maxine Rice and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will forever treasure the lessons she taught them and the memories they shared. Her legacy also includes her first son-in-law John A. Harrington, Sr., grandchildren: John A. (JaSand) Harrington, Jr., Sharina Harrington, Howard Abernathy II, Shane (Angel) Abernathy, Lucretia ( Robert) Lott, great-grandchildren: John Allen Harrington, III, Jaleah Harrington, DiSaiya Harrington, Gaige Acevedo, Gavin Acevedo, Amber Lott, Julian Lott, Alexia Carmichael, and Skylar Abernathy and her two great-great granddaughters Amiyah Harrington and Avani Broom who were all the light of her life. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, George Washington Brown and Frances Elvira (White) Brown, brothers, George Ralph Brown Sr, and Frank Edward Brown Sr., sisters Carol Elizabeth Long, Frances Patricia Hance, and Ora Louise Nesbitt, brothers-in-law James Hance (Frances), Jesse Key and Elrado Long (Carol), sisters-in-law Naomi Brown (Robert) and Jackie Brown (George) and sons-in-law Howard Abernathy (Sheryl) and John Stones (Letitia). 

Her faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of her life, and she found solace and community at Vineyard Columbus Church where she was an active member until her health prevented her from attending. Her unwavering faith and her gentle spirit were a guiding light for all who knew her. 

A celebration of Sylvia's remarkable life will be held on September 9, 2024, at Marlan Gary Chapel of Peace - East, located at 5456 Livingston Avenue, Columbus Ohio 43232 where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and the profound impact she made on our lives. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Central Ohio Underground Railroad Study Group, 3419 Norwalk Road, Columbus Ohio 43207 in her name, reflecting the compassion and generosity that defined her life. 

Though Sylvia may no longer walk among us, her legacy of love, generosity, and kindness will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be dearly missed but forever remembered in our hearts.