Sylvia J. Dobbins Garrison

Sylvia Dobbins Garrison, 88, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a life marked by strength, devotion, and boundless love. Born to the late Norris Everett Dobbins and Hazel Worth Dobbins, Sylvia was the oldest of five siblings: Don Dobbins and Barbara Anne Walker, who survive her, and the late Jimmy Dobbins and Wayne Dobbins.

Sylvia was the proud mother of three daughters: Sandy Carpenter (Scott), Jeanie Correa, and the late Barby Burns. She was the cherished grandmother of five—Stephanie Donald (Kelly), Katie Martin (Chris), Lauren Correa, Melissa Land (Tanner), and Jonathan Correa (Sarah)—and a beloved great-grandmother to eight: Gracie Hicklin, Cooper Hicklin, Jack Wright, Ryan Wright, Conner Wright, Maybree Land, Mason Land, and Peyton Correa.

Family was everything to Sylvia. She was the glue, the heartbeat, the constant. She made it her mission to check on everyone regularly, and no one ever left a conversation with her unsure of where they stood—they were loved, deeply and without question. She would have moved mountains for any one of them, and she made sure they knew it. In fact, she was so passionate about keeping her family close, she would (loudly and frequently) remind them to stay connected, love one another, and never let life or distance break their bond. Her heartfelt pep talks on the subject became a loving family legend—equal parts touching and hilariously persistent.

A fierce competitor and natural athlete, Sylvia’s heart beat fastest on the softball field. A skilled pitcher and lifelong sportswoman, she bowled in leagues, spiked volleyballs, and lit up every diamond she stepped on. Well into her fifties, Sylvia could still be found pitching and playing with fire in her eyes and a grin on her face. When she finally hung up her cleats, she never stepped away from the game. For over three decades, she was a permanent fixture in the stands, faithfully cheering on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with the same energy she once brought to the field.

Her reach went far beyond her family. When her grandkids brought friends home, it didn’t take long before they, too, started calling her Nanna. Eventually, “Nanna” wasn’t just a nickname—it became a title of honor, recognized by family, friends, and even her adult companions. To know Sylvia was to be pulled into her orbit of warmth, joy, and fierce loyalty.

Sylvia retired from civil service and spent her later years as an active, faithful member of Lakewood Baptist Church, where her faith remained central in her life and service.

She lived big, loved bigger, and left a legacy etched not only in the records of family sports and Sunday services but in the hearts of every life she touched. She was the kind of woman who showed up—loud, proud, and unwavering. Sylvia Garrison wasn’t just a name; she was Nanna to all who needed one.

A celebration of life will be held Tuesday, April 15, at Lakewood Baptist Church in Rock Hill; and in true Sylvia style, you are welcome to wear something comfortable—and bring your best stories.

Visitation: 12:00 p.m. – 12:50 p.m. , Service: 1:00 p.m.

Condolences may be sent to www.greenefueralhome.net