Sylvester Birt, Jr.

Service Livestream HERE

Sylvester Birt was born on May 5, 1932, in Indianola, Mississippi, the first of 10 siblings born to Inez Poindexter and Sylvester Birt, Senior.

He confessed a hope in Christ at an early age and united with the Pilgrim Green Missionary Baptist church, where Rev. Hellon served as Pastor.  He attended the elementary schools of Mississippi and was a part of the first graduating class of Gentry High School, Indianola, Mississippi in May 1953.  He was joined in Holy Matrimony to his high school sweetheart, Ruthie L. Goff on May 13, 1953, in Indianola, Mississippi.  To this union one son, Quentin, was born.

Sylvester was enlisted in the United States Army and served his country proudly from 1953 to 1956.  He was honorably discharged in 1956 as Sergeant, after which he relocated to Chicago, IL, to seek employment.  Sylvester enjoyed many pastimes which included gardening, handy work, cooking, barbecuing, and fishing. He often traveled to Jackson, Mississippi to fish in the Spring Ross Barnett Reservoir for white perch fish.  July 4th each year was his big cookout day. Gathering family and friends together is what he most enjoyed.  He occasionally met friends and neighbors at the local McDonald’s for coffee and conversation.

Sylvester re-dedicated his life to Christ at Jean Davis’ Family Christian Retreat in 1985.  He and his wife, Ruthie, joined Wheaton Christian Center, under the pastorate of Carlton R. Arthurs in 1985. There he served faithfully as an usher and was active in the men’s ministry.  Sylvester was employed at Precision Steel Warehouse in Franklin Park, IL for 33 years and retired in May of 1997.  

To cherish his memory, Sylvester leaves his son Quentin, daughter-in-love, Angela, and granddaughter, Jasmine of Westchester, IL; three sisters, Mrs. Willie L. Springfield of Magnolia, AR, Mrs. Barbara J. Bridges and Mrs. Deborah C. Vaughn of Indianapolis, IN; Brother, Tommy Lee Birt of Greenville, MS, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

He leaves to continue his celebration of life, reunited for eternity with his beloved, Ruthie.

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