Vera Mae Syptak passed away on July 10, 2024, at the age of 103. She was born on May 8, 1921, in Post, Texas, to Reverend William Francis and Ruth Leah (Askins) Haynie. She had two brothers, James Lovell and Robert Clifton Haynie.
Vera Mae's childhood was marked by frequent moves, as her family lived in 23 different places, primarily in west Texas, during her formative years. After graduating from high school at the age of 16, Vera Mae trained to become a comptometer operator and moved to Bryan, Texas. It was there that she met and married her husband, Raymond Syptak, in 1940 while he was a senior at Texas A&M University. Throughout Raymond’s distinguished career in the U.S. Air Force, Vera Mae was a devoted wife, supporting him through 29 relocations until his retirement as an officer.
Vera Mae was the mother to five children: Michael (Aileen), Patricia (Michael) Efird, Paula (Fred) Price, William (Debra), and Mark (Debbie). In addition to being a loving mom, she was actively involved in various military wives’ clubs, charities, as well as the "Grey Lady" program with the American Red Cross for 45 years.
Vera Mae was a delight to many. She had a witty sense of humor and was fun to be around. So many have commented how much she brought laughter and joy into their lives.
Vera Mae was the consummate homemaker who loved cooking, cleaning, and making her house a home. This was important to her because she wanted her family to feel they had a place where they could feel safe and loved particularly in light of the family’s many moves.
Vera Mae’s unwavering faith was an inspiration to her family and those who knew her. She was a longstanding member of Hillcrest Baptist Church in Austin where she taught adult Sunday School when needed. When the kids were still at home, she would read the Bible and pray with the children at bedtime because of the importance of her faith.
Vera Mae's legacy will live on through her 5 children, 8 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren, who have all been deeply influenced by her example of love, faith, and service. She will be dearly missed by her family and many friends.
Funeral service will be conducted by pastor Tom Goodman at Cook-Walden Chapel of the Hills on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 1;30. Visitation will take place from 1:00-1:30 prior to the service.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.11.2