Elizabeth Sykes

MADISON - Elizabeth Sykes, age 91, passed away Saturday, August 17, 2024 in Madison, Wisconsin. Born in Shoreham-by-Sea, England, to George Arthur and Joan Hedgecock August 14, 1933.

While she studied and practiced nursing in London at Westminster Hospital, she met her future husband, William Stuart Sykes. They married on September 4, 1954, in Sussex County, England, and immigrated as a family to the USA in 1964.

Together they raised a family of seven sons in Madison. She was a founding member of Shorewood Hills EMS and served as a driver and EMT, at the Shorewood Hills Garden Club and Shorewood Hills Elementary School Library for many years. Her gentle, soft-spoken nature belied the steely determination and strength she had exhibited throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 64 years, Stuart, in 2019 and grandson Anthony in 2021.

She is survived by her sons Chris (Tammy), Nick (Michele), Jon (Bridget), Mark (Cindy), Matt (Beth), Andrew (Sharon), and David.

She is also survived by her grandchildren Braena (Phil), Emilea, Eric (Stacey), Christopher (Lisa), Lauryn (Greg), Kaitlyn (Alexander), Neil, Alexander, Adam (Amber), Aaron (Kelsi), Austin (Hannah), Stephanie (Malte), Claire (Jeff), Derek (Alison).

Her great-grandchildren include Elena, Leif, Kennedi, Bodhi, Indi, Sundai, Linden, Ivy, Blake, and Easton.

A memorial service will be held at Ryan Funeral Home, 5701 Odana Rd, Madison on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.; Visitation will be from 3:00-5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Alzheimer’s Association (Madison Area Fund).

A special thanks go out to the Madison Paramedics and staff at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

5701 Odana Road

608-274-1000