Sylvia M. “Trude” Vick passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025, at 78, surrounded by family in Ypsilanti, Michigan. A lifelong resident, she held deep ties to the community and traced her ancestry to African-Canadian communities in Chatham and Dresden, Ontario. Her family legacy connects to Rev. Josiah Henson, the inspiration behind Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin.
A Ypsilanti High School alumna from the class of 1964, Sylvia attended Eastern Michigan University and joined the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Her career at the University of Michigan spanned decades, culminating in her 2011 retirement from the Office of Government Relations. At 65, she ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing SyLesTam K & Associates, which she led until her passing.
Her spiritual journey began at Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church and flourished at M.O.R.E. Jesus Family Fellowship, where she was a trusted financial leader and member. Sylvia will be fondly remembered for her grace, humor, and dedication to family and community, leaving a lasting impact on those around her.
Surviving Family and Legacy
She is survived by her daughters, Leslee Clerkley and Sylvia Copeland; granddaughter, Kiara Vann; and eagerly awaited great-grandchild. Her brother, Anthony McKinley Vick I (Rosaline), their children, and her sister, Karla Vick, along with Karla’s children, also mourn her loss. Sylvia was a beloved aunt to Michael Vick and Terry Vick, and a great-aunt to many nieces and nephews.
Sylvia’s lifelong friendship with Janice Austin was akin to sisterhood, and Janice and her husband, Richard, became godparents to Leslee Clerkley. Darle, whom Sylvia considered a son, also served as Sylvia Copeland’s godfather. Her cherished friends were truly family in every aspect.
Preceded in death by her parents, Clyde Augustus Saunders Vick Jr. and Sylvia Olleta Vick, brother Michael Vick, and sister Saundra Vick, Sylvia’s legacy continues to inspire through love, strength, and faith.
A Celebration of Life was held on June 30.
— Submitted by Nie Family Funeral Home
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