On November 7, 2021, Sylvia Conrad, 68, departed the life we know in the comfort of her family and friends. She was born July 19, 1953 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph and Selena Nichols.

Sylvia started school at 14th Street Elementary School, which has since been demolished. She went there from the first through the sixth grade, and then onto East Winston Junior High School (now John F. Kennedy High School). Sylvia graduated as a member of the Class of 1971 from Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School. She continued her academic pursuits at North Carolina Central University. It was at NCCU where she followed in the footsteps of her mother and became a member of the Illustrious Alpha Lambda Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated in 1973. Sylvia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work in 1975 from The illustrious North Carolina Central University. She was an active member of the Winston Salem Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and her love for both, her beloved sorority and her alma mater, remained strong throughout her life.

Sylvia worked for the Forsyth County Department of Social Services as a Social Worker. During her years of employment, she was promoted and advanced to the position of Supervisor. Shortly after her initial retirement in 2012, Sylvia returned to the workforce and began working for the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System where she was one of 10 finalists for 2014-15 Classified Employee of the Year.

Sylvia was an advocate for education, hard work, and pursuing one's dreams. She instilled this into her children and her young family members. She was supportive, giving, thoughtful, and an example and an inspiration to many.  Sylvia was a beautiful soul. A wonderful daughter, wife, mother, sister, and friend. But most importantly, Sylvia was a child of God, so we know she has seen God.

She preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Selena Nichols; and her brother, Joseph Nichols Jr.

Her memories will be cherished by her loving husband of 44 years, Michael Leon Conrad; her loving children, Mychal and Meisha Conrad whom she adored; her four grandchildren, Ar'Monni, Ariel, Dylan, and Brielle. Joyful and precious memories will always remain in the hearts of her cousins whom she cherished, Ronald (Barbara) Hemphill, Joyce Hemphill Brayboy, Genith Hemphill, Ronald Hemphill, Jr., Desmond Campbell, and Kimberly Clarke Oshungbohun whom she affectionately called "CousinSoror." Her light touched so many and several extended family members, her church family, and many cherished friends and neighbors will keep her in their hearts for days and years to come.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 12noon Thursday, November 11, 2021 at First Baptist Church with Reverend Glenn Pettiford officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. The family visitation will be held from 11:30am until 12noon on Thursday at the Church.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Omega Omega Service will be held virtually.