Sylvia (Nana) Jeanne Wodarski, age 76, of Livonia, Michigan passed away May 28, 2026.

Sylvia was born in Ypsilanti, MI on July 8, 1949, to Charles and Reba (Hegwood) Hoeflein, being the 3rd of 4 children. Sylvia had a very close, loving relationship with John’s parents, John and Stephanie Wodarski as she grew up.

She was predeceased in death by her parents, two older sisters, Cindy Casada and Lois Hoeflein, younger brother Kenneth Hoeflein and John’s parents John and Stephanie.

Sylvia married John July 22, 1967, her beloved husband of 59 years. She loved John with all her heart from the time she first laid eyes on him at age 13. They built a love story most people can only pray to have. One thing Nana often said was “if I had to choose again, it would always be him.” She was a strong woman of faith. Sylvia had a sign in her house proclaiming to all visitors, “I love Jesus, on February 22, 1963, my husband asked me to go steady.” She took great joy in telling family and friends alike these stories. They were together for 63 years and built a beautiful loving family. She had 2 kids, 17 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

Sylvia was truly devoted to her family. Her daughter Darlene was the center of her world. No matter the situation, she knew Darlene would be by her side, ready to help in any and every way. The bond they shared was more than a typical mother – daughter relationship, it was built on love and devotion.

Her son John held a special place in her heart. The bond she shared with him was unbreakable. The smile on her face whenever she looked at him or talked about him could not be erased. It was as if she was announcing to the world “this is my boy.”

She is grandmother of 17;  Brandon (Carrie); Bryan (Holly); Michelle (Chris); Daniel (Jennifer); Mark; Hannah (Nick); and Nicholas (Jamie),  Jordan (Courtney); Samantha (Tim); Aaron; Kourtnee; Taylor (Jake); John (Olivia); Nikolas; McKaylee (Michael); Joseph; and Parker.

She has been blessed with 18 great grandchildren, plus one more on the way as well.

Sylvia is dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her family and friends will miss her stories and talks and the pride she carried for John, her kids, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Visitation Wednesday, 2 pm – 8 pm. In state Thursday 10 am until the 11 am Funeral Service at the John N. Santeiu & Son Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital.