Sylvia Kelsey Spotts

Sylvia Kelsey Spotts, 84, died comfortably in her home in Columbia, Missouri on December 22, 2020, from respiratory issues caused by COVID-19. A lover of family, kindness, nature, and community, she will be missed by many whose lives she touched.

Sylvia was born April 14, 1936 in North Canton, Connecticut, the daughter of artists Luman and Dorothea Kelsey. She graduated from Hart College with a degree in music education, and worked as a music teacher in public schools in New York and, starting in the 1960s, in Missouri. Besides being a mother to two boys, she taught countless cello and piano lessons, worked in a commercial greenhouse, and loved her work writing poetry, especially about natural and philosophical topics. She spent 56 years married to Carleton Spotts, the love of her life, until his death in 2014.

An inspired student of humanity, Sylvia participated wholeheartedly in activities promoting peace, social justice, and community outreach. Her passion for a life of simplicity, kindness, understanding, and respect were well-matched by a wry and mischievous wit and a ready, sparkling laugh.

She is survived by her sister Sally, who lives in Connecticut, numerous nieces and nephews, sons Peter (Dawn Warren) and Dave (Martha), three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A memorial service is planned, at a date and time to be determined.

In lieu of flowers or other remembrances, friends and relatives are encouraged to make a donation to Mid-Missouri Peaceworks, a cause she supported, or to give to the charity of their heart’s choice.

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