Eddie Hugh Sykes

Eddie Hugh Sykes, 83, of Woodbridge, VA, peacefully passed away on January 14, 2025. Born on October 20, 1941, in Tarpon, Virginia, to Clarence Ralph Sykes and Easter Lillie Phillips. Eddie’s life was a rich tapestry woven with love, laughter, and countless memories. Eddie shared 64 beautiful years of marriage with his devoted wife and soulmate, Joyce Basham Sykes. Their love story began in Woodbridge in 1958 and blossomed into a lifelong partnership built on mutual respect and unwavering devotion. Together, they raised two children: Edward Scott Sykes (predeceased) and Sandra Sykes Wells, and doted on their granddaughter, Jessica Brynn (Doran) Bonssdorf, and two great-grandchildren, Odin and Luna Bonssdorf. Odin affectionately coined the name, “Deddy Mom” for Eddie and the name became a family favorite since then. Eddie’s family’s were his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Eddie was the brother everyone looked up to. His siblings and their spouses — James Lee Sykes (deceased) and Luisa Sykes of Oregon; Loretta Sykes Thomas and Bill Thomas (deceased) of North Carolina; C. Ralph Sykes Jr. and Jenny Sykes of North Carolina; and Jerry Cochran of North Carolina and many other loving family members to include cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews-all revered as family from west to east coast-all knew him as a steady, guiding presence in their lives. Though he grew up moving between Virginia, DC, Maryland, and Burlington, NC, Eddie’s heart always held a special place for Burlington, especially for Zack’s Hot Dogs, a mandatory stop on every visit. Eddie’s love for mechanics and all things automotive began with his first car, a 1940 Ford, and grew into a lifelong passion. His favorite car was the rare and iconic 1948 Tucker Torpedo, and a miniature model of the Tucker proudly sat on display as a testament to his admiration for ingenuity and innovation. He began his career with the Federal Government and later worked for the Fairfax County Government, where his passion for learning and problem-solving flourished. Affectionately known as “Mr. Fix It,” Eddie’s sharp mind and endless curiosity about how things worked made him a natural problem-solver. Eddie’s interests were as diverse as they were deep. He was a history buff with an encyclopedic memory, a fierce competitor at Jeopardy, and a die-hard football fan. One of his favorite adventures was a nostalgic journey down the legendary Route 66, filled with stories and laughter as we relived the golden days of the open road. In 1976, Eddie achieved one of his proudest milestones when he became a Master Mason in the John A. Lejeune Lodge #350 A.F. & A.M. in Quantico, VA. He served as Worshipful Master in 1980 and was later honored with the title of Tiler Emeritus. His commitment to Masonry reflected his dedication to service and community. Eddie’s dedication extended beyond Masonry to his deep involvement with Shriners International—Kena Temple. He served as a parade driver with the Kena 500 driving the mini orange Corvettes and as President of the Kena 500 in 2006. He was exceptionally proud of the Kena 500 when they became International Champions in 2012. He delighted in playing a character for the annual Breakfast for Santa event, and his many years helping at the Kena 500’s Christmas tree lot became a beloved tradition. Eddie also arranged Angel Flights by coordinating plane reservations and personally transported children and their families to the Shriners Hospital in Philadelphia, PA, ensuring they received the care they needed with dignity and compassion. Eddie’s passion for cars extended to his car club, where he relished the camaraderie and good food at the club’s annual Oyster Roasts, taking equal pleasure in cooking and savoring the feast. He also was very patriotic and was honored to perform the, “Toast to the Flag” upon request. With his Carolina blue eyes and sharp sense of humor, Eddie was the epitome of a Southern gentleman—humble, kind, and selfless. He had a magnetic charm that instantly put people at ease and a knack for championing the underdog. His granddaughter, Jessica, described him best: “He was selfless, compassionate, and unforgettable.” Eddie Hugh Sykes lived a life filled with love, passion, and service to others. His warmth, humor, and boundless energy left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Though he may no longer be with us in person, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched and the stories that will be shared for generations. Eddie’s life was a testament to the power of love, service, and joy, leaving behind a legacy that will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Tributes

Eddie Hugh Sykes

January 14, 2025