Sylvia Mary Abourezk Sophiea, age 91, fell asleep in the Lord Thursday, November 21, 2013, in Berkeley, California. The funeral took place on November 26th in El Cerrito, CA. Sylvia, daughter of Elias Abourezk and Rose Samra, was born April 20, 1922, in Gregory, South Dakota. After her father’s early death, she was raised in Flint, Michigan, by her mother and stepfather, Anton Gantos. She married Frank Sophiea on November 25, 1945 and cherished 53 wonderful years with him. Sylvia was highly respected and influential in the Flint community and beyond, serving tirelessly for 80 years as a community leader, activist, and organizer. She was a faithful member of St. George Orthodox Church serving as the Choir Director for 30 years, member of the Parish Council, office secretary, and so much more. She was a member of the Arab-American Heritage Council, a volunteer for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and board member of the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee. As a social worker/immigration specialist and finally executive director of the International Institute in Flint, she had a huge impact on the quality of life for immigrants of Flint and the neighboring communities. After Frank fell asleep, she spent her final earthly years in Berkeley, California. She was a remarkable woman who loved her family, church, community, and music. She is survived by her children: Dale (Elania); Sylvia Elain (Doug) Reeves; Cynthia (Jeff Rodman); Michele (Pat) Newsham; grandchildren, Nico, Katherine, Rebecca, Jessica, Eiren, Karolyn; great-grandchildren, Sadie, Leit, Oliver, Frances; niece, Sylvia Gantous. She leaves behind many cherished friends and cousins. Memorial contributions may be made to St. George Orthodox Church. A Memorial Service and Lunch honoring Sylvia will take place at St. George Orthodox Church, 5191 Lennon Road, Flint, MI on Sunday, January 12, 2014 beginning with Divine Liturgy at 10am.