Jacksonville, NC -- On March 8th, 2016, Sylvia Grady Hobgood, 80, passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side. She was greeted at heaven's gate by her precious granddaughter Racheal. Sylvia lived her life for the Lord, placing Him above all else, and her family is at peace knowing she is in the arms of Jesus.

A celebration of Sylvia's life will be held at First Baptist Church, Jacksonville, on Saturday, 10:00am with Senior Pastor Jason Brinker officiating. Burial will follow at Onslow Memorial Park. Visitation will be Friday, March 11th, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm pm at Jones Funeral Home, Jacksonville.

Sylvia was born in Durham, North Carolina on February 21st, 1936. She graduated from Durham High school and furthered her education at Elon University. It was there that she met her "prince charming" Homer. Sylvia and Homer graduated in 1956 and were married that year on June 23rd. They were married 60 years. Sylvia and Homer relocated to Jacksonville and there they raised three daughters.

Sylvia's love of the Lord sparked a desire to minister to women of all ages and so she started the Ladies Bible Study group at First Baptist. The ministry grew to well over 200 women wanting to learn and grow in the Lord. Sylvia "walked the walk" and led by example.

Throughout her life, Sylvia ministered to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her home was a haven of love, laughter and the joy of the Lord. She delighted in cooking, and looked forward to having the church staff in her home for Christmas brunch each year.

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Ruth Guyer, Margaret (Honey) Ray and Mrs. Brenda Meredith, RN with Continuum Home Care and hospice for their expertise in caring for Sylvia.

Sylvia is survived by her husband, Homer; their three daughters, Lynda and Leamon Humphrey of Jacksonville, Celeste and Mike Prusaitis of Swansboro, NC and Beth and Angelo Kontoulas of Greensboro, NC. Sylvia leaves 7 precious grandchildren: Jessica, Jamie, Rebekah, Joelle, Hannah, Maegan and James Spencer and three great-grandchildren, Miller and Hudson Warlick and James Price Armistead.