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Dorothy Thornburg Sykes

January 9th, 1914 - July 25th, 2014

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Dorothy Thornburg Sykes, 100, of Cocoa Beach left us peacefully on Friday, July 25, 2014, in Viera. ""Dot"" was born January 9, 1914, in Liberty, TX. She graduated from University of South Carolina in 1934 and taught elementary school in Hickory, NC. She met her husband, E.L. ""Ep"" Sykes, in Washington, D.C., and was married in 1947 at Andrews AFB. General Sykes was stationed at Patrick AFB as vice commander in 1957, and the family came to Cocoa Beach in 1958, where they were active members of St. David's Episcopal Church. Dorothy loved gardening and having a Florida home where friends and family could visit and enjoy the beach, shuttle launches, and all that Florida has to offer. ""The girl from Liberty"" was generous and kind, as well as a fierce lover of life and freedom. She is survived by daughter, Charlotte Sykes, of Cocoa Beach; son, Lundy Sykes, and daughter-in-law, Kate Barker, of Norfolk, VA; sister, Hilda Gunst of Indianapolis, IN; sister-in-law, Frances Thornburg, of Bessemer City, NC; nieces and nephew, Susan and Lisa (Gunst), Dedie and Katie (Crawford), Lisa (Cobb), and Jon Cobb, and their families; and a large and loving family at Autumn House in Viera where she lived her last years. She is preceded in death by her husband; her brothers, Robert and Jack Thornburg, and her sister, Charlotte Crawford. Visitation is Friday, Aug. 1st from 4 to 6 p.m. at Beckman-Williamson Funeral Home in Cocoa Beach. Burial is with her husband at Arlington National Cemetery.

We Entrusted Dorothy Sykes's Care To

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Beckman-Williamson Funeral Homes & Crematory - Cocoa Beach

Beckman-Williamson Funeral Homes & Crematory - Cocoa Beach

Beckman-Williamson Funeral Homes in Cocoa Beach is the city's sole funeral service provider. We are known for our decades-long commitment to inclusivity and the ability to accommodate every family's needs. We welcome families of all faiths and backgrounds, and our Spanish-speaking staff is ready to provide complete assistance before, during, and after the service.

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(321) 236-4445

Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor Dorothy’s life with a heartfelt message.

Elise K Gunst - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dear Charnie,Your mom is an integral part of my childhood - one of those wisecracking, smart-as-a-whip Butler women we love to the end and will remember for the rest of our lives. She was the exotic aunt, all the way from Florida, the one who had lived in Alaska and brought Eskimo dolls with real fur.She was one of the essential elements of this vibrant, many-faceted family. Happy 100 and a half, Aunt Dot! We love you. Lisa

Published June 8th, 2024
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Judy Spezzano Barnum - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

I knew Dorothy from Autumn House, where my mother resides. I can't tell you how amazing I thought Dorothy was, especially at age 100--what she could do for herself was astounding. I will miss hearing her sweet voice when we exchanged our hellos. I will miss the joyful expression she would get each time her daughter Charlotte visited. I will miss everything about her. Rest in Peace dear beautiful Dorothy.

Published June 8th, 2024
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Holly Hansen - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Charlotte:Looking at your Mother's picture I see YOU! Not only do you look very much alike, Her love, generosity and kindness just jump out of the picture. Just like all these qualities do in you, dear friend. - Holly

Published June 8th, 2024
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Greg & Kathy Stankie - July 31, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dear Charlotte, Our sympathy is extended to you and your family. We will always remember her as a lovely neighbor. Her photo looks so much like you! Call us if there is anything we can do for you. Love Greg & Kathy

Published June 8th, 2024
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<strong>Holly Hansen</strong> - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Charlotte:Looking at your Mother's picture I see YOU! Not only do you look very much alike, Her love, generosity and kindness just jump out of the picture. Just like all these qualities do in you, dear friend. - Holly

Published June 8th, 2024
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<strong>James & Coco Wood</strong> - August 02, 2014 at 12:00 AM

James and I were saddened to hear of your mother's passing. Losing a loved one is never easy. A mother's loss is especially difficult to experience regardless the circumstances. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Charlotte, and your family. Know that we are here for you.

Published June 8th, 2024
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Gloria - July 29, 2014 at 12:00 AM

I am sorry for your loss my sympathies go to you and your family.

Published June 8th, 2024
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<strong>Judy Spezzano Barnum</strong> - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

I knew Dorothy from Autumn House, where my mother resides. I can't tell you how amazing I thought Dorothy was, especially at age 100--what she could do for herself was astounding. I will miss hearing her sweet voice when we exchanged our hellos. I will miss the joyful expression she would get each time her daughter Charlotte visited. I will miss everything about her. Rest in Peace dear beautiful Dorothy.

Published June 8th, 2024
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<strong>Pamela Viles</strong> - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dear Char, I offer condolences on the passing of your wonderful mother.

Published June 8th, 2024
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<strong>Gloria</strong> - July 29, 2014 at 12:00 AM

I am sorry for your loss my sympathies go to you and your family.

Published June 8th, 2024
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<strong>Frances Thornburg, Lisa Warner, and Jonathan Cobb</strong> - August 01, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Aunt Dot will surely be missed. I remember the times we visited her in Florida and she was always fun to be around. As far as I know everyone of her dogs were named "Coco"! She loved them poodles. Mom said that she was the one who taught her how to make sour dough bread, and it's the best. The last time Bob and I was there to visit was in Janurary of 1988. She put us to work cleaning up her back yard. I didn't mind the work, it was the gigantic Florida Spiders that lived there!!! Yes she will be missed. We love you Aunt Dot, may you rest in peace.

Published June 8th, 2024
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Frances Thornburg, Lisa Warner, and Jonathan Cobb - August 01, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Aunt Dot will surely be missed. I remember the times we visited her in Florida and she was always fun to be around. As far as I know everyone of her dogs were named "Coco"! She loved them poodles. Mom said that she was the one who taught her how to make sour dough bread, and it's the best. The last time Bob and I was there to visit was in Janurary of 1988. She put us to work cleaning up her back yard. I didn't mind the work, it was the gigantic Florida Spiders that lived there!!! Yes she will be missed. We love you Aunt Dot, may you rest in peace.

Published June 8th, 2024
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Chris L - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dot's daughter is my best friend and her stories with her mom are super wicked fun.Blessings to all who knew Char's mom in life. Carry on with love...

Published June 8th, 2024
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<strong>Chris L</strong> - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dot's daughter is my best friend and her stories with her mom are super wicked fun.Blessings to all who knew Char's mom in life. Carry on with love...

Published June 8th, 2024
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Adrienne Marquart - July 29, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Char, Sorry for the loss of your mom. What an incredible life she had. You were a wonderful daughter to her. You are an inspiration to me.Adrienne

Published June 8th, 2024
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Christina Beck - August 01, 2014 at 12:00 AM

I love the picture of your beautiful Mother she is so full of Spirit. I send my heartfelt condolences at this time and if I can be of support in any way please let me know.with God's Love,Christina Beck

Published June 8th, 2024
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<strong>Greg & Kathy Stankie</strong> - July 31, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dear Charlotte, Our sympathy is extended to you and your family. We will always remember her as a lovely neighbor. Her photo looks so much like you! Call us if there is anything we can do for you. Love Greg & Kathy

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

Dedie Dooley - July 31, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dear Charnie - I send condolences and prayers. Aunt Dottie was so kind to me and so much fun. She let me bring my college friends to stay at her house for spring break, she taught me about healthy cooking and vitamins, she's the only adult I ever saw go skinny dipping at night at the beach! She was a joy to know and I miss her.

Published June 8th, 2024
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Katie - July 31, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Aunt Dot was one of my favorite aunts. She was always fun, was playful and full of life. She was a great cook and into nutrition long before it was in style. She played with her nieces and nephew on our Ocean Isle beach trips and at Nana's house. We loved to visit her in Cocoa Beach and she made sure we were will entertained. I will miss talking to her and her making me laugh. I will miss her sweetness and spirit. I will miss Aunt Dot. Love you!!

Published June 8th, 2024
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myriam minacapelli - July 31, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Sorry for your loss, I had the privilege to help care for Dorothy since last year and I know she was loved

Published June 8th, 2024
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Bridgette Gifford - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

My thoughts and prayers are with you charlotte and your family

Published June 8th, 2024
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Roxanne and Ralph Buttaccio - August 01, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Charlotte, We are sorry for your loss. May the memories of your mother bring you comfort at this time. Roxanne and Ralph

Published June 8th, 2024
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<strong>Christina Beck</strong> - August 01, 2014 at 12:00 AM

I love the picture of your beautiful Mother she is so full of Spirit. I send my heartfelt condolences at this time and if I can be of support in any way please let me know.with God's Love,Christina Beck

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

<strong>Elise K Gunst</strong> - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dear Charnie,Your mom is an integral part of my childhood - one of those wisecracking, smart-as-a-whip Butler women we love to the end and will remember for the rest of our lives. She was the exotic aunt, all the way from Florida, the one who had lived in Alaska and brought Eskimo dolls with real fur.She was one of the essential elements of this vibrant, many-faceted family. Happy 100 and a half, Aunt Dot! We love you. Lisa

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

<strong>Bridgette Gifford</strong> - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

My thoughts and prayers are with you charlotte and your family

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

James & Coco Wood - August 02, 2014 at 12:00 AM

James and I were saddened to hear of your mother's passing. Losing a loved one is never easy. A mother's loss is especially difficult to experience regardless the circumstances. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Charlotte, and your family. Know that we are here for you.

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

<strong>Roxanne and Ralph Buttaccio</strong> - August 01, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Charlotte, We are sorry for your loss. May the memories of your mother bring you comfort at this time. Roxanne and Ralph

Published June 8th, 2024
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0

<strong>Johanna and Bruce Carter</strong> - July 29, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dear Dot,We know and love Char, and wanted to sign your book for somehow you were a big part of her life. We never met, but it feels that we have because of the connection we have with Char. Many blessings and safe journey. The Carter's

Published June 8th, 2024
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<strong>Adrienne Marquart</strong> - July 29, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Char, Sorry for the loss of your mom. What an incredible life she had. You were a wonderful daughter to her. You are an inspiration to me.Adrienne

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

<strong>myriam minacapelli</strong> - July 31, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Sorry for your loss, I had the privilege to help care for Dorothy since last year and I know she was loved

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

<strong>Rick Estes</strong> - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

May you rest in peace always

Published June 8th, 2024
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Johanna and Bruce Carter - July 29, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dear Dot,We know and love Char, and wanted to sign your book for somehow you were a big part of her life. We never met, but it feels that we have because of the connection we have with Char. Many blessings and safe journey. The Carter's

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

Pamela Viles - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dear Char, I offer condolences on the passing of your wonderful mother.

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

<strong>Katie</strong> - July 31, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Aunt Dot was one of my favorite aunts. She was always fun, was playful and full of life. She was a great cook and into nutrition long before it was in style. She played with her nieces and nephew on our Ocean Isle beach trips and at Nana's house. We loved to visit her in Cocoa Beach and she made sure we were will entertained. I will miss talking to her and her making me laugh. I will miss her sweetness and spirit. I will miss Aunt Dot. Love you!!

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

<strong>Dedie Dooley</strong> - July 31, 2014 at 12:00 AM

Dear Charnie - I send condolences and prayers. Aunt Dottie was so kind to me and so much fun. She let me bring my college friends to stay at her house for spring break, she taught me about healthy cooking and vitamins, she's the only adult I ever saw go skinny dipping at night at the beach! She was a joy to know and I miss her.

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

Rick Estes - July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM

May you rest in peace always

Published June 8th, 2024
0
0

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