I am so sorry to hear about Sylvia. I met her in 2016 when I heard that she had taught herself ballet with library books from a bookmobile. As a children's book creator I felt her story cried out to be a picture book. I interviewed her and found her to be the delight that she was. The book became "Ready to Fly: How Sylvia Townsend Became the Bookmobile Ballerina." Knowing her, her story, and her family has truly enriched my life. Lea Lyon

I wanted to reach out and share my sincere condolences.

Sending my love and deepest sympathy to you and your family, for your lose of your mother. I can't imagine how difficult this is for you. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

It was truly a pleasure working with your mother for the short time I did. She was enjoyable to be around,  listening to music together,    laughing, reading, praying with her. And telling me about her life stories. 

What an amazing person and what a remarkable life. I feel  privileged to have known her. I know you will miss her deeply. 

Your mother blessed so many people with her faith, kindness and dancing. Praying that you’ll find comfort in your memories of her and in the knowledge that others are missing her, too.”  I will truly get to know her even more in the New World to come. That Ransom has giving all of us to see our love ones again soon💜

Rel 21:3,4

The Townsend family and the Welch family were one family, as our children grew up together in Richmond. The Art of Ballet School was a second home where our children   studied dance with Sylvia.  For well  over  three decades we enjoyed living a legacy being made. Above all was the constancy of our friendship and love for each other's family . With the recitals, the special events, and coming together to  share family celebrations, it was the laughter,  the warmth, the respect, and the sheer enjoyment of one another that kept our friendship real and reliable. The Welch family will miss our beautiful, caring, gifted and loving friend, Sylvia Townsend.

My condolences to Sylvia's family. I first met Sylvia and family through our faith in Jehovah and also working briefly with her and we got know each other better very beautiful sister that loved her Jehovah and her family.