Funeral servic es for Sylvia Michele Petrey, 73, of Norman were held December 11, 2025 in the Havenbrook Funeral Home Chapel in Norman. Interment was at the Wanette Cemetery in Tribbey, Oklahoma under the direction of the Havenbrook Funeral Home.
Mrs. Petrey passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025 in Norman. She was born on April 20, 1952 in Shawnee and from meager beginnings built a life defined by perseverance, dedication, and deep love for her family.
Sylvia spent her early years alongside her mother and grandmother, whose home became the foundation of her strength and character. She attended Wanette High School, where she was actively involved in basketball and cheerleading, and proudly graduated in 1970.
On June 26, 1970, Sylvia married the love of her life, Wendell, beginning a 55 year partnership marked by devotion and shared purpose. She was married to the same man for 55 years, Ha! Shortly after, the couple moved to Dibble, Oklahoma, where Wendell taught and coached. Sylvia continued her education and, in 1970, enrolled at the Oklahoma College of Liberal Arts, completing her degree in just three years.
Sylvia went on to build a remarkable 30-year career with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, working in the Purchasing Department. Her skill, leadership, and determination led her to become the Head of the Procurement Department for the State of Oklahoma. In 2002, she created the Oklahoma Association of Public Procurement, a chapter of NIGP, a role that reflected her professionalism and dedication to public service. She was honored to serve as president of Oklahoma Associate of Public Procurement as well.
Sylvia and Wendell welcomed three daughters, who were the joy of her life: Tara (born September 19, 1975), Amanda (born February 26, 1978), and Samantha (born July 6, 1982). Sylvia’s love for her children and her pride in their accomplishments was immeasurable.
A woman of profound resilience, Sylvia survived cancer in her leg, undergoing six surgeries before the cancer was fully removed on the seventh attempt. Her courage during this time embodied her lifelong strength.
She was an enthusiastic fan of OU sports, especially men’s and women’s basketball and football. She cheered passionately for her Sooners and OKC Thunder and she also held a special fondness for quarterback Baker Mayfield.
Sylvia retired in 2009, embracing time with family, especially her grandkids Grace, Eli and Sophia, and reflecting on a life lived with purpose, service, and love.
Sylvia was preceded in death by her mother, Amanda Palmer; Mammaw, Mittie; and brothers, Eddie and Jimmy.
She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Wendell Petrey; daughters, Tara Carpenter and husband, Tym, Amanda and her partner, Jeff, and Samantha and her partner, Chris; siblings, Roger, Mike, Vicky and Belinda; grandchildren, Grace, Eli, Sophia, and bonus granddaughter, Madi.
She leaves behind a legacy of determination, compassion, and unwavering loyalty—one that will continue through her family and all whose lives she touched.
In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made to Meals on Wheels of Norman.