Ferdinand James Sylvester

Graveside services for Mr. Ferdinand James Sylvester will begin at 10:00 AM Friday, March 21, 2025, at Meridian Memorial Park with Reverend Mark McDonald officiating. Interment will follow graveside rites. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

Mr. Sylvester, 88, of Dalewood, died Monday, March 17, 2025, at Baptist Anderson Regional Medical Center surrounded by his family following an extended illness.

A talented, and gifted mechanic, his reputation for excellent and unparalleled work preceded him. He was known for his precise skills and it could be said that he could rebuild a transmission or engine in his sleep. He was the owner and operator of C & S Auto Sales; he also was the owner of Car Quest in Newton, MS for many years. Always a motor enthusiast, he especially enjoyed classic cars.  He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time and into his retirement. He served as an MP in the United States Air Force.

Mr. Sylvester is survived by his children, Anthony Sylvester (Joyce) and Diana Keith; two bonus children, June Johnson and Kay Watkins Sosebee; a close friend, Tommy Wilkerson; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Mr. Ferdinand is preceded in death by his parents Wallace and Antoinette Schulz Sylvester; his wife, Martha Sylvester; siblings, Joyce Roper, Beryl Marlow, and Russell Sylvester.

The Sylvester Family suggests memorials be made as donations to Southern Pines Animal Shelter at 1901 N 31st Avenue Hattiesburg, MS 39401 in lieu of flowers.

Online condolences may be expressed at robertbarhamffh.com.