The Rev. Sylvia June Brightwell

Sylvia was a formative part of my 53rd Musician experience, musically, emotionally, spiritually. Sylvia set the tone and the tempo. That group of musicians and those friendships meant the world to me, a lifeline in many ways. Under Sylvia’s strong feminist leadership, which was like oxygen to me, I grew so much. Sylvia and Pam had an indelible impact on my young closeted queer heart. They showed me that my kind of love was possible. My heart reaches out to Pam as well as to those close to Sylvia, weeping and celebrating in equal measures. I will be grateful for Sylvia’s life and her example, forever. Kelly-Anne Malcomson Victoria, BC

I am so sorry for your loss Pam. I ain't know wordsmith or whatever so I thought I would share a picture of happier times.

I had the pleasure of knowing Sylvia from her time spent Friday afternoons at Parkwood. Her conversational ease and true interest in the people made her an integral part of Fridays. Class was always a little more fun and social when Sylvia attended. She has been missed.... My sincere condolences.

Thinking of you , Pam , on the passing of your beloved Sylvia . May memories comfort you and eternal love give you strength .

Remembering a ‘teenage’ Sylvia, who was not only a dear family friend, but gave me singing lessons as a young girl, and cared for me through busy days around my father’s passing in 1959. She was also extended family, through her uncle, Robert Hackett. In my early life, she was very much a mentor and a beautiful role model. Remembering her with fond memories.

Sylvia directed the choir at St. John's in St. Thomas when my sons and I attended. She was a wonderful, caring, and inspirational leader. I also knew her at 53rd Weekend. I was sorry to hear of her passing. May she rest in peace and rise in glory. May God grant peace to her family and friends and may fond memories bring comfort to them as they grieve. Margaret Newman

Please accept my deepest condolences on learning of Sylvia's death. It out me in mind of the song 'Seasons of Love' and the love you shared with each other as the season's and years unfolded. Sylvia lived a life of service through the blessings of her Ministry and Counselling. I always remember her singing at Christ Church and was so moved when she lead the Litany of Saints. Pam you are wrapped in love. May you be sustained and uplifted by faith, family and friends and the previous memories you share. In Mayan legend the Milky Way is called 'The River or Bridge of Souls'. After death we make our passage over that bridge and are met by our loved ones and Ancestors.

I think of Sylvia with a rich fondness in my heart. Lyn and I thank her for the precious memories, joyous ceremonies, workshops, baptisms, and life, pure and simple, on life's terms. I thank her for being who she was, all that she embodied, and all the good she so graciously gave to others that now continues as one of her lasting legacies. Pam, in each and every memory, you are there, by her side. You are a gift to this world. I am truly sorry for the loss of your beloved. May her memories comfort you. Catherine and Lynda Gough

Our sincere condolences to you Pam.I remember the pleasant afternoon we spent chatting when Joanne joined Dan and the boys and you two were visiting. I also remember talking to you both at one of the baseball games that Jo and Dan played in----wrap yourself in all the warm memories. They will comfort you. May Sylvia rest in peace . Will be thinking of you at this sad time.

Pam, I met both you an Sylvia at 53rd Weekend many years ago. The musical presence from both you and Sylvia was an inspiration and I spent many years as a 53rd Musician myself. May your footsteps be blessed as you remember and celebrate Sylvia's life. Christine Saunders

Pam, my sincere condolences to you and your family with your huge loss. My most profound memory of Sylvia was her crystal clear and angelic VOICE at occasions I was privileged to sing alongside her. Sending you love and comfort in the days ahead. Ria

Pam I am sorry for your loss of your beloved Sylvia. I have known you since camp Huron Days. You were my cabin group leader more than once. I met Sylvia there playing the guitar and singing. Then years later at various church events. Sylvia was my therapist for many years. Then you both came to our church. We have come full circle. I will miss seeing Sylvia at special events. Please know that you are being held in love, thoughts and prayers. We will miss Sylvia forever. Love Colleen

Sylvia and I met in 1969 at Huron College as first year students in the one course — English literature — our timetables shared. In neighbouring seats, we connected easily. She often drove me home on rainy days and then more frequently. That was the pace of our unexpected friendship that continued through intervals of wide-ranging introspective conversation and sometimes lengthy silences when our paths took completely different directions … but the circles kept intertwining and we came to share a wonderful friendship well over half-a-century long. I will miss her dearly.

I remember having told Sylvia her voice was like angels singing. I'd like to think she sang her way to heaven. Pam and family I was honoured to have known Sylvia. My love and heartfelt condolences.

We are so sorry Pam to hear about Sylvie. The other day we lost a very caring selfless individual. We hope you find comfort in knowing that this caring selfless invidual has definitely earned her wings. RIP Sylvie! Our deepest Condolences to Pam and Family!

Sincere condolences to Pam, the family and the community that she has touched so greatly. May she find ever lasting peace.