Sylvia Myrtle Breshears

Sylvia Myrtle Breshears passed peacefully in her sleep on September 12, 2026, just two weeks shy of her 77th birthday.

Born September 26, 1949, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, to Clyde Elmo and Sylvia Pauline Boyette, Sylvia was the oldest of six children. She grew up in a close and wonderfully musical family. Her mother was a gifted musician who played both piano and guitar, and Sylvia grew up singing alongside her. From those early years came a lifelong love of music and an extraordinary singing voice of her own. Sylvia especially loved gospel and country music, and when she sang, people took notice. She could fill a room not only with her powerful voice, but with the unmistakable presence and spirit that made Sylvia, Sylvia.

Her greatest love story began while she was still in the 9th grade. Odis Breshears Jr. was a senior, and Sylvia, determined to get his attention, intentionally dropped her books in the school hallway so he would have to pick them up for her. Her plan worked! The two fell in love and were married on June 2, 1967, beginning a marriage that would span over 59 years. Those fortunate enough to know Sylvia and Odis witnessed a love that was truly special. They were soulmates and, quite simply, meant for one another. Their playful bickering—often with Sylvia doing just a little more of the bickering—could leave those around them laughing hysterically, but beneath it was an unmistakable devotion and a love that endured for nearly six decades.

Sylvia graduated from Fountain Lake High School in 1968. Although she attended college and held a variety of jobs throughout her life, often doing something she loved—cooking—she chose to spend most of her years as a homemaker, devoted to caring for her husband and family. Sylvia was loved by everyone who knew her and will be remembered for her enormous and generous heart. She found tremendous joy in doing things for others, and very often that meant feeding them! Whether she was preparing a meal or one of her locally-famous desserts for a holiday, family gathering, special occasion, or simply making something for someone for no particular reason at all, giving was part of who Sylvia was. Food was one of the many ways she showed her love, and there was always plenty to share. Thanksgiving may never be the same, but her spirit will always be present, reminding us all to come eat!

More than anything, Sylvia treasured being with her family. She never forgot a birthday, anniversary, or other important occasion. Those who loved her could always count on Sylvia remembering their special day—and almost certainly sending a card, often accompanied by a gift. Her generosity seemed to know no bounds, and she had a remarkable way of making people feel remembered, cared for, and loved. She loved cooking, gardening, music, dancing, traveling, and spending time with the people she loved. And anyone who ever visited Sylvia's home knew about another of her great loves: frogs. Her collection could be found throughout the house and outside as well, becoming one of those wonderfully unmistakable little things that made her home hers. Indeed a lover of life, her precious smile and laugh will always be cherished.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde and Pauline Boyette, and her brother, Ronnie Boyette. She is survived by her beloved husband, Odis Breshears Jr.; her son, Brian Breshears and his fiancée, Linda, of Atlanta, Georgia; her daughter, Rebecca Breshears of Mountain View, Arkansas; her grandson, Josh Jones of Los Angeles, California; her siblings, Doug Boyette (Kathy), Teresa Boyette, Aaron Boyette (Angela), Tracy Booher (Chad), sister-in-law (Carolyn) widow of her brother Ronnie, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved her dearly.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Sylvia's life on Friday, September 25, at 6:00 p.m. at Walnut Valley Baptist Church in Hot Springs. In keeping with Sylvia's lifelong love of music, the evening will include live music, memories, laughter, and a celebration of a remarkable woman whose powerful voice, generous heart, and unforgettable presence touched so many lives.

Sylvia spent a lifetime making sure the people around her knew they were loved. Her voice may now be still, but the love she gave so freely will continue to be heard in the lives of everyone who knew her.

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 2 Innwood Circle, Suite A, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72211. You may leave a message of condolence to the family using the Guestbook section.

www.arkansascremation.com