Sylvia Jo Nowak

Sylvia Jo Nowak of Graford Texas went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on March 30, 2026 at the age of 87.

Sylvia was born March 7, 1939, in Mineral Wells Texas to Joseph and Thressa Manley of Graford. She grew up in Graford and attended Graford ISD; she was a member of the Graford Church of Christ. Sylvia lived all her life in Graford.

Sylvia is a descendant of the Palo Pinto and Jack County Pioneers. Her dad Joe Riley Manley was a descendant of the early Palo Pinto County pioneer Manley and Mills families. Her mom, Thressa, was a descendant of the early Jack County, Wood Pioneer family.

In Sylvia’s younger years she showed quarter horses and participated in barrel racing. She also enjoyed playing basketball and was a member of the Graford Jackrabbits basketball team. Later, she was employed with Graford ISD as a secretary and office manager until she retired. To stay active, she worked at the Cliffs and Walmart. She enjoyed working the elections and serving on the Transportation Committee.

Sylvia was a history buff and enjoyed visiting historical markers, monuments and historical places like the Biltmore Estates, The Baker Hotel, and the Palo Pinto County Historical tours among many others. She enjoyed many family vacations and was always ready for the next trip, so much so that Sylvia’s mom used to call her, “Sylvia Go”.

Sylvia was an animal lover. She had peacocks, dogs, goats, a donkey and a horse. She loved shopping, dressing up and was never seen without wearing one of her favorite hats.

Sylvia spent her last years on her family land at Barton Chapel, where her mom grew up.

She is survived by her partner Jeff Almonrode, her children, Bart Nowak, Kim Nowak, Eddie Nowak and their spouses and Tami Segars. She is survived by five grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.

Sylvia lived life to the fullest.

Arrangements entrusted to Baum Carlock of Mineral Wells. Visitation will be Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at Baum Carlock Baumgardner Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held 10 a.m. Friday, April 3, 2026 at the Graford Cemetery.