Nancy Ann Vernon Sykes
Nancy Ann Vernon Sykes was born on May 20, 1955 and passed away at the age of 69 on August 19, 2024 after an extended illness.
Nancy was born in Iowa and moved with her family to Galveston when she was seven years old. She grew up in Galveston County and attended Dickinson High School. Nancy was known for her love of horseback riding, sail boats, her green thumb and her generosity. She met the love of her life, James Edward Sykes, in Clear Lake Shores in 1994, and they married in 1996. Together they pursued their passions: music, photography, politics and most especially family. Their annual Christmas parties were legendary with their large and boisterous blended family.
Nancy worked as a legal secretary for much of her professional career. She had the opportunity to work on high profile cases including the Exxon-Valdez oil spill. She also served a stint as the executive assistant for the CEO of Diagnostic Systems Laboratories in Clear Lake. She was passionate about her work, the legal system and the Democratic process, and was a regular contributor to the Democratic Party.
Nancy is survived by her husband of 28 years, James Edward Sykes, and her children, Rebekah Kristina Duhon and husband Doug, and Neal Solon Spangler and his significant other Marquesa Polhans. She is also survived by the children of her loving blended family, Chad Colin Sykes and wife Becky, Carly Elizabeth Gatewood and husband Logan, Kevin Thomas Sykes and wife Allison. Nancy is survived by her beloved seven grandchildren, Erik Otto Mueller, Jeremy Austin Spangler, Eiledon Sykes, Kaelan Sykes, Fletcher Gatewood, Milo Sykes and Nora Sykes. She is also survived by her sister Linda Vernon and niece Jessica Bieberly, with whom she was especially close.
Nancy is preceded in death by her parents Grant Pershing Vernon and Martha Hedwig Schwietert Vernon, and her siblings Robert, Brian and Matthew Vernon.
A visitation for Nancy will be held on Monday, August 26, 2024 at 9 am at Crowder Funeral Home located at 851 FM 517 in Dickinson, TX followed by a funeral service at 11 am. Graveside service immediately following at Mont Olivet Catholic Cemetery located at 7801 Gulf Freeway in Dickinson, TX. Flowers, plants and trees honoring Nancy’s memory are welcomed.
I miss you mom.
Although I did not know Nancy personally I know some of her children. She must have been an amazing lady to have raised such wonderful people. Sincere condolences to the family and wishing them strength during this difficult time.
Nancy was a force of nature. So very smart! And beautiful. Growing up, I remember some really fun slumber parties at her house. She loved her children so fiercely. She didn’t entertain fools and spoke her mind. Her strength and resilience are gifts she gave her children. Prayers for Beki, Neal, and James to be at peace with knowing she is no longer suffering. And to be surrounded in the love of family and friends.
Sending all my love and condolences to you Beki.