Reba “Betty” Elizabeth Sykes of Johns Island, SC, passed away peacefully on Oct. 21, 2026 at Brookdale Senior Living in West Ashley at the age of 81.

Born in 1945 in Charleston, SC, daughter of Kenneth and Adeline Benton Pope from Charleston, Betty graduated from St. Johns High School in 1963 and soon after married Marvin Sykes. They were married for 60 years.

Betty was a homemaker and family coordinator. In her younger years, she spent her time raising and caring for her two boys, Kenny and Teddy. She attended all sporting events for her sons and grandchildren. She was always the loudest fan in the stands.

Once Betty became a grandmother, her grandchildren became the center of her world. Buppy loved spoiling them and had endless energy for making memories together. From trips to the movies and days at the beach to fun-filled games of putt-putt, Betty took her grandchildren on countless adventures, filling their lives with laughter, love, and treasured memories.

Betty’s favorite time of year was Christmas, when she could bring her sons and their families together to celebrate. She treasured these family gatherings and loved watching everyone open their gifts. She did her best to keep track of who opened what, making sure everyone felt special and no gift went unnoticed. Christmas was a time of love, laughter, and creating cherished memories with the family she loved so much.

She was an active member of First Baptist Church of Johns Island. She attended Sunday school regularly. One of Betty’s favorite hobbies was shopping and antiquing.

Betty is preceded by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Pope. She is survived by her two sons, Kenneth Marvin Sykes (Susan) of James Island and Theodore Ashley Sykes (Dana) of Johns Island; five grandchildren: Logan, Ashlynn, Garrett, Hayden, Lauren; four great granddaughters; a sister, Linda McGinnis (David) of Hanahan, a brother, James Pope of Johns Island, and many nieces and nephews.

Kenny and Teddy would like to extend a very special thank-you to their Uncle James “Pickle” Sykes for his unconditional love, unwavering support, and encouragement. They are eternally grateful for all you have done and for the love and dedication you have shown them. Your kindness and support have meant more than words can express, and they are truly honored to have you as our uncle.

The family would like to extend an additional thank you to the staff of Brookdale Senior Living and Crescent Hospice.

The funeral will be on Oct. 23, 2026 in the J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., West Ashley Chapel, at 11:00 am. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service for visitation. Burial will follow at Carolina Memorial Gardens immediately after service at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Baptist Church of Johns Island.

Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. West Ashley Chapel. 

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