Sylvia Pearl Nista

Sylvia Pearl Nista, age 89, of Northville, Michigan, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, March 23, 2025. Born on August 24, 1935, in Plains Township, Pennsylvania, to the late Aloysius and Pearl (Janeszewski) Urban. Sylvia's life was a testament to her unwavering passion for her faith and family, her courageous entrepreneurial spirit, and the joy she found in nurturing meaningful relationships with others.

After moving to Detroit, she met the love of her life, Manfredo Nista, at a dance. They married on October 6, 1951, and shared 57 beautiful years together. Their marriage exemplified love, faith, and devotion, built on mutual respect and unwavering commitment to each other and their children.

Sylvia left a lasting impact on all who knew her. As a businesswoman and strong self-learner, she inspired countless individuals with her courage and resilience. Her entrepreneurial spirit flourished through successful ventures like “Nista’s Hair Salon,” “Nista’s Fashions-n-Things,” clothing boutique in Northville and Farmington Hills, MI; BJ's Broadstreet Café in Charleston, SC; and real estate in her later years. Her hospitality and love for people created a sense of community wherever she went.

Sylvia's vibrant spirit was evident in her active lifestyle, which included tennis, bowling, and pickleball. She found joy in nurturing her flowers and plants, relished lively card games with friends and family, and cherished time by the ocean on Kiawah Island. The beach held a special place in her heart, where she treasured memories of laughter and warmth with her loved ones during family vacations. With a generous heart, Sylvia took great pleasure in nourishing those around her—whether through a warm meal at home, comforting dishes at her restaurant, or working in the kitchen at church. But above all, Sylvia's heart belonged to her family.

She is survived by her loving children: Norine Krakowski, Sharon Huyser, and Jim (Sally) Nista. Cherished grandmother of Ryan (Juliana), Taylor (Jason), Callen (Joseph), Jordan (Julita), Anton, Justin (Brittany), Anna (Anton Josef), Meagan (Devin), and Alexander. Sylvia was also the proud great-grandmother of eleven, with two more blessings on the way. She is deeply cherished by her extensive family, including numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Sylvia was preceded in death by her four siblings: Dolores, Stacia, Aloysius, and Lorraine.

Sylvia will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her warmth, strength, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.

A Funeral Mass will take place at 11:00 am on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, 133 Orchard Road, Northville, Michigan 48167. Sylvia's family will receive visitors at the church on Monday from 10:30 am until the time of Mass at 11:00 am. After the services, Sylvia will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery in James Island, South Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association in Sylvia's memory. Due to travel plans following the Funeral Mass in Michigan, where they will proceed to the Entombment in James Island, South Carolina, the family will not be able to take flowers with them. Your understanding and support during this time are greatly appreciated.