Sylvia Rodgers “Nana”, age 89, passed away on October 30, 2024, in Vero Beach, FL, surrounded by her family.

Born December 9, 1934, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Sylvia was the daughter of Fritz and Dorothy Zweifel, a family deeply proud of their Swiss heritage. This pride carried through Sylvia’s life, leading her to study in Zurich, Switzerland, at the Gademann School. Later, she graduated from the Lincoln School in Providence, Rhode Island, and then pursued her education at the University of Louisville, where she met her husband, John Ferguson Rodgers. Sylvia and John married in 1959 and began their life together in New York City before moving to Arlington, VA., and finally settling in Reston, Virginia, in 1968. There, they raised three children: John “Jack,” Ann, and Mary, and built a life full of community, and friendship.

Following her interest in healthcare, Sylvia worked as a clinical assistant with Kaiser Permanente for over 20 years. Sylvia had a gift for connecting with others, offering humor and a smile. In 1999, Sylvia and John retired to Vero Beach, FL, where they spent their time with their grandchildren in South FL, and among the beautiful weather and scenery of Florida and close friends.

After John’s passing in 2004, Sylvia found renewed strength and a sense of belonging through the Community Church of Vero Beach and her love of music, singing with the Treasure Coast Chorale. It was there she met James O’Brien, her companion and partner for over a decade, with whom she shared both harmony and joy.
Sylvia, affectionately known as “Nana,” was a devoted grandmother who delighted in every aspect of her grandchildren’s lives, always encouraging their unique interests and cheering them on at every opportunity. A voracious reader, she was often found lost in a good book. Her love for music, especially classical, was both profound and lifelong, enriching her life and the lives of those around her. Known for her sharp wit and infectious laughter, Sylvia filled every room with warmth and light, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Sylvia’s caregivers, whose kindness, compassion, and dedication made a difference in her final years. Their care brought comfort to both Sylvia and her family, who are forever grateful for their support and presence.

Sylvia was predeceased by her son John “Jack” Thadeus Rodgers and leaves behind her daughters, Ann Rodgers Guanci and husband Joseph of Melrose, MA, and Mary Rodgers Henley and husband Andrew of Canberra, Australia; six grandchildren who were the light of her life: John Rodgers, Charles Rodgers, Virginia Guanci, William Guanci, Emilia Henley, and Elizabeth Henley. She is also remembered affectionately by Jack’s widow, Rebecca Rodgers Hessinger.