Sylvia Ellen (Stravino) Gill, 87, of Whitehall, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026, surrounded by the loving embrace of her family.

Born in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Sylvia was the cherished daughter of Edward and Rose (Pletz) Stravino. She was one of five siblings and is survived by her brother Don and sister Suzette. She was preceded in death by her siblings Pasquale and Gloria.

A graduate of Allentown Central Catholic High School, Sylvia answered a call to faith early in life by serving as a Sister of the Visitation. She later began her professional journey as a Surgical Technologist at Allentown General Hospital and the AT&T Phone Center, where her warm personality and dedication earned her many sales awards. She went on to join Western Electric (which later became part of AT&T, Lucent, and Agere), giving more than 25 years of loyal service before retiring. Sylvia especially treasured the camaraderie of bus trips shared with her coworkers.

A faithful and devoted member of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church in Whitehall, Sylvia lived her faith with quiet strength and held her family close to her heart. She and her beloved husband, John, shared 56 wonderful years of marriage filled with love and partnership before his passing in 2024.

Sylvia was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was a loving and devoted mother to her three daughters: Therese (Michael) Sowa of Camp Hill, Yvonne (the late Tom) Kuklis of Macungie, and Jonelle (Harry) Yonak of Orefield. She was also a proud and adoring grandmother to Alexander and Zachary (Carly) Sowa; Natasha (Ryan) Kahn and Luke Kuklis; and Dominic Yonak.

Sylvia found joy in the simple pleasures of life—the beach & swimming, shopping, playing pinochle with family, and pursuing her creative passion for interior decorating, especially through ceramics and wreath making. Above all, she treasured time spent with those she loved, organizing several family reunions and always trying to capture the memory with a photo. Her family was the true center of her world, and she will forever be remembered for the deep love, unwavering devotion, and special place she held in the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Following a stroke in 2013, Sylvia resided in a nursing facility for nine years. Throughout that long journey she showed extraordinary strength, determination, and resilience. Known for her sweet smile, she faced life’s challenges with the spirit of a true fighter. Her quiet courage and enduring love for her family will remain an inspiration to all who were blessed to know her.

The family extends its deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers who surrounded Sylvia with care, comfort, and compassion throughout the years.

Services: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026, at St. Elizabeth’s Church, Fullerton Ave., Whitehall, with visitation at the church from 10 to 11 a.m. Calling hours will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Reichel Funeral Home, 326 East 21st, Northampton, PA. Interment will be private.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, contributions in Sylvia’s memory may be made to the Sisters of the Visitation, 12221 Bienvenue Rd., Rockville, VA 23146.