Sylvia Shakir

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life and
legacy of Sylvia Jean Shakir, a beloved mother, Nana, sister, and
devoted worshipper, who peacefully transitioned from labor to eternal
reward on December 25, 2025.

Sylvia Shakir was born on February 11, 1953, in Weldon, North
Carolina, to the union of Mary Jane Hicks and Leroy Green. From an
early age, she was known for her love, compassion, and beautiful smile.
She attended Weldon High School, graduating with the Class of
1972. Determined to serve and care for others, she later attended Kee
Business College, where she earned her Certified Nursing Assistant
(CNA) credentials. She dedicated her professional life to the nursing
field, serving with compassion, patience, and dignity, treating every
person she cared for as family.

During this season of service, she met the love of her life, Yusuf Shakir,
whom she later married. Their union was rooted in companionship,
faith, and mutual respect. He preceded her in death in 2014, and she
carried his memory with love and grace until her final days.
Above all, Sylvia was a woman of unwavering faith—a true
worshipper whose life reflected prayer, praise, and devotion to God. Her
faith was not only spoken but lived, evident in her kindness, resilience,
and willingness to serve others without condition.

She was a devoted and loving mother to her daughters, Makeda
Houston and Rashida Houston, whom she cherished deeply and
supported wholeheartedly.

Sylvia embraced her role as Nana with immense pride and joy. She
leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Ayanna Battle and Christian
Battle, children of Makeda Houston; and Jasmine and Robyn, children
of Rashida Houston. Her love for them was constant, covering them in
prayer, encouragement, and unconditional support.

She is also survived by her siblings and relatives: Cynthia Bynum;
Leroy Green, Jr.; Wayne Green; Thomas Green; Sonny Green; Mark
Green; Lealer Houston; Paula Turner; Tracye Talley; Levar Green;
Juanita; Linwood Alexander; Veronica; Ramona; and Lisa, along with
a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, church family, and
dear friends.

Her life was a living testimony that worship is not just something
you do—it is who you are. Though she is no longer with us in the flesh,
her legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to live on through the
generations she nurtured.