Sylvia Ann Mabee

After a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Sylvia Ann Mabee (nee Harpster), 88, left her earthly body on March 15, 2026, and was united with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. At the time of her passing, Sylvia resided in the Memory Care unit at Vitalia Senior Living Community in Copley, Ohio.

A lifelong resident of Akron, Ohio Sylvia was born on September 8, 1937, to Thomas and Elizabeth Harpster. She graduated from Buchtel High School in 1955 and soon after earned a BS in Elementary and Special Education from Kent State University where she was a member of Delta Gamma Sorority.

Sylvia loved teaching, first deaf students in East Cleveland and later special education students in the Revere School District. A faithful member of Fairlawn Lutheran Church, Sylvia served as the President of the Women’s Guild and Altar Guild and completed training to be a Stephen’s Minister.

A devoted wife, Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, G. William Mabee. They had a shared a love of boating and spent may summers on Lake Erie. Together they raised five children: Scott (Ellen), Christopher (Kim), Stuart (Stephanie), Michael and Michelle Giovannelli (Michael). Sylvia was a beloved Grandma to 10 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the staff at Vitalia for treating Sylvia with tremendous dignity and respect as her mind and body slowly failed her. A small private ceremony will be held at Rose Hill Burial Park on Saturday, March 21. Memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org or mailed to Alzheimer’s Association, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd. Fairlawn, OH 44333.