Sylvia Rich Crosby

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Service Schedule
Memorial Service
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
424 E. Main Street
Batesville, AR  72501
Monday, March 15, 2021
1:00 pm

Sylvia Rich Crosby

of Batesville, AR

January 5, 1938 - February 21, 2021

Sylvia Rich Crosby, 83, of Batesville passed away Sunday, February 21, 2021.

She was born January 5, 1938 in Forrest City, Arkansas to Walter Raleigh Rich and Stella Mae Rush Rich.

Sylvia was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church; enjoyed singing in the choir at church and with The Community Choral Society. She enjoyed cooking for her family, sewing, and loved visiting her grandchildren here in the area as well as in Florida. Sylvia enjoyed watching movies and going out with her friends. She was a big fan of live music of all kinds especially, blues, jazz, and opera. She belonged to the Philanthropic Educational Organization and served on the board for both the White River Housing Authority and Old Independence Regional Museum. She often would volunteer her time at the museum and loved to mentor and shape the minds of young people.

Survivors include her three daughters, Carol Crosby and Amanda Crosby Thomas both of Batesville, and Margaret Crosby Wells of Boca Raton, Florida; one sister, Carol Rich McQueen and her husband, Lee of West Memphis; and four grandchildren, Amanda Claire Thomas, Jackson Crosby Thomas, Osborne Keller Wells, and Bruce Carroll Wells.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Cyrus Keller Crosby; and sister, Margaret Rich Neely.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Monday, March 15, 2021 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Old Independence Regional Museum 380 S 9th St, Batesville, AR 72501 or to the music program at St. Paul's Episcopal Church 424 E Main St, Batesville, AR 72501.

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59 Condolence(s)
Chris Barr
La Mesa, CA
Liked
Wednesday, June 16, 2021

I still remember the first time I ever met Sylvia I was an acolyte at Saint Paul’s Episcopal church she was saying and then require like she always love to do

Glen Pool
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, March 17, 2021

Amanda & Jack, I am so sorry for your loss. She was just a special person, and will be missed by many.

Beth Jones
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, March 9, 2021

A beautiful soul with a beautiful voice. She will be missed. Heartfelt condolences to her loving family.

H.E. Lachelle & IV Neely
McKinney, TX
Liked
Sunday, March 7, 2021

God Bless. Rest her soul. ♥️

melissa foster
Batesville, AR
Liked
Saturday, March 6, 2021

So sorry to her of her passing.. She was a wonderful person.. She was my fifth grade teacher and she was one of my favorites and one I often think about.. Prayers for her family..

Victoria Meredith
Boca Raton, FL
Liked
Thursday, March 4, 2021

I always enjoyed seeing & visiting with Sylvia when she came to visit in Boca.

Cliff Brown
Batesville, AR
Liked
Monday, March 1, 2021

My heart is just broken into a million pieces. To say that you were one in a million is not too far fetched. What a lasting impression you left on so many people that met you. You’ve made it to the kingdom just like you’ve been preparing yourself for. You will be missed so much here on this earth. I feel as if I’m a better person after meeting and knowing you. Prayers for your family as they struggle to find the new norm. Love and miss you!

Middleton Wootten
Raleigh, NC
Liked
Friday, February 26, 2021

Blessings to all!
So many memories of Sylvia surface,
Mostly at St. Paul’s Church, and around
Batesville, Arkansas.
Especially vivid is Sylvia at choir party at
Lim and Laura’s.

Becky Jiles
Batesville, AR
Liked
Friday, February 26, 2021

🙏🙏🙏🙏 for all the family.

Joan Davidson
Batesville, AR
Liked
Thursday, February 25, 2021

My deepest condolences to Carol and family. Oh how I will miss Sylvia and her beautiful voice. The choirs will never be the same without her. But heaven's choir is a little sweeter with Sylvia.

Rob and Jennifer Emey
Batesville, AR
Liked
Thursday, February 25, 2021

Sylvia and Keller were the very first people we met when we decided to move to Batesville in 1998. Sylvia was always so kind and caring to our family. She will be missed! Sending our love and prayers to her family.

Gary and Linda Leonard
Batesville, AR
Liked
Thursday, February 25, 2021

Carol and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss! We are thinking of you and will keep you in our prayers.

Laura Pickren
Batesville, AR
Liked
Thursday, February 25, 2021

Carol and family, your mom was awesome!
I’ve ❤️‘d her (and ur dad) for a long time.
My sympathy and 🙏 for all

Allison and Ronnie Echols
Arkadelphia, AR
Liked
Thursday, February 25, 2021

Carol, we are so very sorry to learn of your loss. God bless you and all of your sister's family
during this sad time.

Joann cothrine
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

You were a wonderful friend and will be dearly missed! My prayers are with the family.
Joann cothrine

Joanncothrine
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

You will be missed my friend .
Bobby and joann

Kristian Ameigh
Pleasant Plains, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Sylvia was such a treasure! Her smile would brighten anyone’s day. I’ve had the pleasure to not only sing with her but accompany her voice on several occasions. It was such an honor to me. I know the heavens are rejoicing with her voice. She was like a grandmother to me and she will be truly missed. My deepest condolences and prayers to her family.

Anne Luster
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

SylvIA was a delightful person who brightened everyones lives. She will be missed. Sympathy to the family.

Tammy Hicks
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

This family is a part of my life. I love them all and am so heartbroken for Sylvia's kids and grandchildren, especially my friend Carol. Prayers for all of you!

Leann Reed Mullens
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Mrs. Crosby will be missed by anyone that knew her. She was one of my favorite teachers and I only had a few! Love and prayers to her family.

But
Batesville,
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Bill and I loved Sylvia. We have known her for years as we worked with her in school. She was a vibrant and always positive person. It was a pleasure knowing her. She will be missed by those who knew her. Rest In Peace, Sylvia

Regina Bryant
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

I know Sylvia will be greatly missed. She was a mentor to me growing up and I always admired her tremendously. Our loss is Heaven’s gain. She’ll be singing in the choir!

Jennifer Ronayne Hidy
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Her smile and warmth could light up a room! She will be greatly missed! Love and prayers to all her sweet daughters!

Stephanie Stout
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Mrs. Crosby (Sylvia) was one of my most favorite people that I had the wonderful opportunity to know. I am sorry for your Carol, Amanda and Margaret.
Prayers

Twyla Wright
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Sylvia volunteered within Old Independence Regional Museum for many years in a multitude ways: as a greeter to visitors, as a docent guide on tours, as a crafts guide at times, as a member of the gift shop committee, and as a member of its Board of Directors. She gave her talents to create marvelous encouraging quilt-angels for the gift shop, and to stitch accession numbers on cloth pieces in our collections.

As a friend, she encouraged me in my museum work, never criticizing, and gave me her great gift of laughter. We loved her as a member of our little "Friday Lunch Group", sharing food and thoughts. I thank God for her.

Willie Strong
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

My sincerest condolences to your family. It was a pleasure serving on the White River Housing Authority Board with Sylvia. Praying for you all.

Shannon Busby
Marion, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Sylvia & I went to highschool together in the early 50’s. Two things I remember about her was how beautiful she could sing & how smart she was. My grandmother lived about 1 block from her house. Can’t imagine how much she will be missed by family & friends. Prayers for her family. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️

Amber Collins
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

She will be missed by anyone that knew her. Wonderful family. Love you all!

Shannon Busby
Marion, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Sylvia & I were in high school together in Forrest City Ar. The first thing I remember about her was how Beautiful she could sing & how smart she was ❤️ My grandmother lived down the street from her.

Gayle Stobaugh
Little Rock,, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

I am so sorry for losing Sylvia. She was a very kind person, an awesome teacher, and great member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. My sympathy and prayers for her family.

Teresa Vinson
BATESVILLE, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

I'm so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Matthew 5:4

Amy Beard-Tallents
Conway, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

My sister Ann, my mother Paula and myself are saddened to learn of the passing of an amazing and beautiful lady, Mrs. Sylvia Crosby. She was such a part of my childhood in Batesville, as my 5th grade home room teacher as well as my music teacher. She was also someone I greatly looked up to at St Paul’s. Every Sunday she would wink at me as she sang during the procession before and after services. Her beauty and smile could light up any room, chase clouds away on a rainy day. I am so blessed to have had such a mentor in my life. Sylvia raised three amazing, and smart daughters. I know Sylvia is in heaven singing in the choir smiling down on us with that mischievous grin! Crosby girls, please know Batesville and anyone that had the joy and blessing of knowing your momma pray and send love for you and your family.

Tom and Susie Cummins
Tyler, TX
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

We are so sorry for your loss. We are keeping you all in our prayers.

Margie Stroud
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

My deepest condolences for the family. Sylvia was a beautiful lady and loved by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. Love, Randy, Margie and Lauren. ❤️

Amanda Pickett
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Much love and sympathy for the passing of a wonderful lady. You will be sorely missed, Sylvie.

Frances Sepulvado
Farmerville, LA
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

I love you Aunt Sylvia❤️

David Wells
Boca Raton, FL
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

I'm going to miss your wisdom and most of all your wit. You were always a shoulder to cry on and were always able to cheer me up and help me see the positive in everything and everyone. I wish I could have had you longer to help give advice for the boys through their early adulthood. I love you and will miss you very much.

Sarah shreve. Mark shreve
Batesville, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

In our thoughts and prayers

Melanie Savidge
Atlantis, FL
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

I met Sylvia when she visited Margaret and her family in Florida. We had some great dinners together! She was a kind, sweet lady and I'm sure she will forever be missed. My deepest condolences to the family and may the Holy Spirit comfort you and give you a peace that surpasses all understanding at this time.

Shawna Wright
SPRINGDALE, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Beautiful bonus Momma to many of us! God Bless and lots of Love!!

Chloye Gowen Pogue
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, February 24, 2021

I knew Sylvia in high school and she was ALWAYS so nice and friendly to me as a new girl in school in the tenth grade -- that was very important in my life. I am so sorry to learn of her death and will pray for peace and comfort for the family she left behind.

Betty Burge Cockrill
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

I am so sorry to hear about Sylvia. My thoughts and prayers are with each of your families.

Katrina Rowe Fudge
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

I loved Ms. Sylvia. I remember her working with all the children when I went to St. Paul’s. She helped with the Christmas play too. Then when we got older she lead the church choir. I always got a big hug from her when I saw her out and about in town. I will miss her big smile and her hugs. What a precious lady. She will be missed by many. Praying for the family.

Colleen Jackson
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

My deepest condolences to family and friends. Sylvia was such a blessing and instrumental in shaping lives, sharing love and bringing joy to so many.


Glenn, Cathy, Chad and Brian Edwards
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family ❤️🙏.

Laura Crouch
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021


I have fond memories when she and Keller would come to dinner at my parent’s home. Sylvia was genuinely a kind and lovely person.

Kathy Varnell
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Carol, and family, I have you in my prayers. Wishing you comfort and peace at this difficult time.

Linda Jobe
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Sylvia was always a sweet friend. In earlier years, we worked together in clubs....and during later times, she lit up my antique shop with her smile and fun......she was always a joy to be around ..... Sylvia was kind and helpful to those who needed her whatever the task. She will be missed by many.

Marilane Warr
Memphis, TN
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Sylvia and I grew up together in Forrest City , AR. She was a delightful, smart and energetic person. I will miss her.

Brandy Rounds
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Mrs. Crosby was a good teacher! She was always kind and genuinely loved Arkansas History n made her students love it too!

Janet Tosh
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Amanda, I am soooo sooo very sorry to hear of your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. She will truly be missed.

Mark & Laura Morris
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Amanda and Family,

We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

In Christ,
Mark & Laura

Debra West
Batesville, AR
Liked
Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Sylvia was a wonderful friend and teacher. She was so welcoming and supportive to me as a new teacher. I’ll forever be thankful for her warmth and compassion. My prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Jeannine Hamilton
Castle Rock, CO
Liked
Monday, February 22, 2021

Sylvia and I had been friends since we were toddlers. My prayers go out to the family and friends. I know she will be missed by all. I had just talked to her a couple of weeks ago. She would catch me up on all her family and the Forrest City news. She is finally well again and with Keller and Margaret
Sincerely,

Jeannine Harmon Hamilton

Elaine Vinson
Batesville, AR
Liked
Monday, February 22, 2021

Sylvia was an awesome teacher, mentor, and friend. Carol, Amanda, and Margaret, you and your families are in my prayers.

Pat Shell
Branson, MO
Liked
Monday, February 22, 2021


Wonderful lady. Sylvia gave me a piecrust recipe probably in the late 60s early 70s I always use that anytime there’s a pie crust to be made. Prayers for the family.

Gary Perkey
BATESVILLE, AR
Liked
Monday, February 22, 2021

St. Paul’s Church will not be the same with my sweet friend. Sylvia was one of those people who enrich our lives for having known them. I will miss her greatly. RIP, Aunt Syl!!!

Alan and Linda
Batesville, AR
Liked
Monday, February 22, 2021

Beautiful person and fond memories singing with her in the church choir.

Katherine & William
Mountain View, AR
Liked
Monday, February 22, 2021

We will surely miss your lonely voice and smile.