James W. "Dusty" Sydnor Sr.'s Obituary
James W. “Dusty” Sydnor, Sr., age 83, met his Lord and Savior on Monday, November 14, 2022. He was born on June 13, 1939, to Clarence and Beatrice (Ulmer) Sydnor, Sr. in Holton, MI. He was a proud veteran serving his country in the U.S. Army. James graduated from Muskegon Heights High School and continued his education at Western Michigan University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. Dusty dedicated 23+ years enlightening the youth at Muskegon Heights Middle School, where he worked as a Social Studies teacher and 30+ years in education. On October 17, 1964, he married the love of his life, Mary (Stovall) in Muskegon, MI. Together they cherished 58 years full of love and laughter. He came to Christ at an early age, he was a faithful and active member of New Hope Baptist Church. James was an avid golfer and bowler, and also had a passion for photography. Above all, he loved spending his time with his family and friends. Dusty was a very social and outgoing man, whose sense of humor could easily fill a room with laughter. He was compassionate and dependable; always being the person you could turn to. He was a devoted husband; proud daddy, wonderful grandpa and great-grandpa, amazing brother, and dear friend to many. His tender-loving and radiant smile will truly be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Mary Sydnor; 4 children, Bernice (Erick) Reed, James William Sydnor, Jr., Shelia (Keith) Sydnor-Riddick and Anthony Joseph (Kelley) Sydnor, Sr.; 9 grandchildren, Denise Brown, Anthony J. (Tiarra) Sydnor, Jr., Khira Sydnor, Aaron Sydnor, Bria Riddick, Askia Riddick, Mya Riddick, Taylor Reed and Ericka Reed; 11 great-grandchildren, Anthony III, Alijah, Aaliyah, Ace, Jordan, Aaron, Ava, Miriah, Zariah, Briella and JaCari; 3 brothers, Orville Sydnor, Robert (Margaret) Sydnor and Frank (Sandra) Sydnor; and sister-in-law, Bernice Sydnor. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence (Beatrice) Sydnor, Sr.; 5 brothers, Clarence (Ida) Sydnor, Jr., Eugene (Willie Mae) Sydnor, Walter (Juanita) Sydnor, John Sydnor and Charles Ulmer; honorary sister, Hazel Moore; and sister-in-law, Hattie Sydnor. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, November 18, 2022, at New Hope Baptist Church, 560 Yuba St., Muskegon, MI 49442. A viewing will be held from 10-11:00 AM at church. James will be laid to rest at Mona View Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Memorial Contributions in his honor can be directed the New Hope Scholarship Fund. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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