Sylvia Ruth Crum, 86, of Eureka, passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at her home. Sylvia was born on May 13, 1939, at Ft. Scott, KS., the daughter of Harry S. and Ruth G. (Hessel) Justvig.
After high school, Sylvia married William Edward Crum on June 30, 1956. Sylvia and William worked alongside each other farming and ranching, while Sylvia also worked several years for Southwestern Bell. Sylvia and Bill were married for 42 years until his death of October 5, 1998.
Growing up, Sylvia had a special love for horses, and all other animals. When younger she was involved in Rodeo’s, Mulvane Saddle Club, and was a member of the American Quarter Horse Association, which she loved horse racing. She was a woman of strong Christian Faith, hardworking, talented quilter, outgoing, and being social with her friends and family. She enjoyed going boating, singing, fishing and hunting and enjoying life. Most importantly, Sylvia loved her family.
Survivors include: three children: Kelly Crum of Moline; Chip and Nancy Crum of Howard; and Casey and Loralei Crum of Springhill; sister: Esther Ferrence of Arizona; five crandchildren: Heather Bouchard, Billy Crum, Chris Crum, Ethan Robertson and Katelynn Crum; five great-grandchildren: Lane, Carson, Canon, Mila and Milo.
Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, husband William, and siblings: Ronny Justvig, Marla Vaughn and Harry Justvig.
Graveside services was held on Thursday, Sept. 18, at 1 p.m. at Gracelawn Cemetery in Howard. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until noon, prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorials have been suggested to the Elk County Community Foundation and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home in her memory. Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh. com. Countryside Funeral Home 206 E. Washington, P.O. Box 1233, Howard, KS 67349
