Sylvia Lorene Mccann

Sylvia Lorene Lewis McCann passed away peacefully on September 7, 2023 at McKendree Village in Hermitage, Tennessee. She was 100 years old.

Sylvia was born on October 29, 1922 on a farm in Mercer County, Missouri. Her parents were Palestine Douglas (Pat) Lewis and Nettie Josephine (Babe) Cox Lewis. Sylvia was the eldest of 6 children, which included 4 brothers and a sister who died in childhood. When Sylvia was 14, the family moved to Indianola, Iowa, where her father purchased and operated a Sinclair gas station. After graduating from high school, Sylvia attended a community college in Des Moines, Iowa, learning secretarial skills. It was there that she met Robert Harold (Brick) McCann. Shortly after finishing his training, Brick joined the US Coast Guard during World War II. Brick and Sylvia were married on July 17, 1943, at his duty station, the Fire Island Lighthouse, on Long Island, New York. A son was born prematurely, and died shortly after birth.

After the war ended, they moved back to Des Moines, Iowa, where they both worked, were active in the First United Methodist Church, joined the choir, and had many friends. Their daughter, Doreen Dae McCann Neal was born there in April, 1947.

In 1956, the manufacturing company Brick worked for relocated to Cookeville, TN. The family joined Cookeville United Methodist Church, and again became active in the choir and the Friendship Sunday School class. Sylvia joined the United Methodist Women and was a devoted member, serving in many offices and roles.

Sylvia and Brick were active in the community as well. Sylvia was a volunteer at the Cookeville hospital, delivered Meals on Wheels, and was a Girl Scout leader, among other community activities. She and Brick regularly hosted students from abroad studying at TTU, serving as a family to students far from home.

In 1959, Sylvia and Brick adopted their son, Timothy Robert McCann. He added many joys to the family until his passing away in 1998.

Sylvia was a role model for her daughter, Doreen. She was known for her fantastic yeast breads and cinnamon or orange rolls. She was a great cook, who loved to entertain. She was also a gifted seamstress, quilter, and needle worker, winning several blue ribbons at the Putnam County Fair.

She is survived by her daughter, Doreen Neal (Richard), 3 grandchildren, Mollie McCarthy, Jill Olney (Ian) and Todd Neal (Crystal) and 7 great grandchildren: Matthew Gmitter, Caroline and Elizabeth McCarthy, Ethan and Emma Olney, and Sophia and Charlotte Neal. She is also survived by 2 brothers, Jack Lewis and John Lewis (Marjorie).

Sylvia's memorial service is to be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, 11:00 AM at Cookeville First United Methodist Church.

The family will receive friends Saturday, January 13, 2024 from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Cookeville First United Methodist Church.

Memorials in her name can be sent to First United Methodist Church, Cookeville Regional Hospital, or to Meals on Wheels.

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. You may share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.