Sylvia S. Way, the unwavering “rock” of her family, was welcomed peacefully into the arms of our Lord and Savior on March 2, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 29, 1952, Sylvia devoted her life to nurturing those around her with a gentle spirit and a selfless heart.
She was the daughter of the late John (Jack) Strouse and Ethel (Corl) Strouse. In 1977, in State College, she married Clifford Way, Jr. They shared a wonderful life together for 48 years. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her three children, Angela Marie Way of Baltimore, Amy Elizabeth Bowen and her husband, Marcus, of Cary, NC and Matthew Guy Way and his partner Jose Rincon of State College; granddaughter, Maya Bowen, grandson Baby Bowen, expected May 2026; brothers, Ronald Strouse and his wife, Deborah, of State College and David Strouse and his wife, Melissa, of Pine Grove Mills; sister, Molly Kline and her husband, Kenneth, of Spring Mills.
She was a 1970 graduate of State College High School. She worked in the PSU Dairy and Animal Science department, retiring in 2014.
Growing up on her family’s farm cultivated a strong passion for gardening and the outdoors. It was not uncommon in the summer to see her in the kitchen canning fresh fruits and vegetables from her harvest and sharing the fruits of her labor with those she loved. A lifelong member of Pine Hall Lutheran Church, she faithfully served for 30 years as the organist and also shared her musical gift in the choir. But above all, her family was her greatest passion and proudest achievement.
Sylvia had a remarkable gift for seeing the good in everyone. Her kindness and signature laugh were cherished by all who had the joy of knowing her. She anchored her family through every season of life, providing a steady hand and a warm embrace to all who knew her. Sylvia’s warmth and grace will be deeply missed, but the strength she instilled in her loved ones will endure forever.
The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Mt. Nittany Shaner Cancer Pavilion, and the local Palliative care and Hospice staff.
In lieu of flowers, Sylvia requested that memorial contributions be sent to Pine Hall Lutheran Church, 1760 W. College Avenue, State College, PA 16801.
At Sylvia’s request, there will be no viewing or visitation.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at the Pine Hall Lutheran Church.