Sylvia Pilkenton Icenhour

Sylvia Pilkenton Icenhour
1934 – 2024

Sylvia Pilkenton Icenhour, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, passed away at the age of 90. Born in Lenoir, North Carolina to  OW Pilkenton and Era Dell Church Pilkenton, Sylvia lived a life marked by grace, determination, and dedication.

A graduate of Lenoir High School in 1952, Sylvia continued her education at Lees McRae College in Banner Elk, NC where she earned a degree in Business in 1955. Voted “most dependable” and a member of the honor society, Phi Beta Kappa, she graduated as her class salutatorian. Her career in medical group practice management began when she was hired by Dr. Fred Thompson in Lenoir, an opportunity that would become a lifelong passion. She led a dedicated staff at Thompson Medical Specialists for 47 years, becoming a well-respected leader in her field. Sylvia’s professional accomplishments are many. She was a Life Fellow of the American College of Medical Practice Executives (ACMPE) and is a Past President of the NC Medical Group Managers. She was known for mentoring other managers across the state, helping them achieve their own
certification and fellowship in ACMPE. In retirement, Sylvia remained active, working at the Catawba Furniture Mall, indulging her love for interior design. Known for her strong work ethic, Sylvia often said, “hard work builds character,” a mantra she lived by and passed on to her family and work colleagues. She will be remembered for her professionalism, her generosity, and above all, her love for family. Sylvia’s kindness and warmth touched everyone she met, and she was a true friend to many.

Sylvia is survived by her brother, Gary Pilkenton; her children, Michael Icenhour (Robert Carta) and Jayne Icenhour Stevens (husband Keith Comeau); and her grandchildren, Jamie Stevens DiGirolamo (Josh) and Mitchell Stevens (Roberta). She also leaves behind her cherished great-grandchildren: Grant Carroll, Stella and Hailey Jayne DiGirolamo, along with many extended family members in Lenoir and Wilkesboro. She leaves behind many TMS work family and friends and her dear friend Barbara Watson of Charlotte.

The funeral service is Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Evans Funeral Service, 1070 Taylorsville Road, Lenoir, NC, with burial following at Blue Ridge Memorial Park. Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation at 1:00 PM, prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the NCMGM Davis Watson Scholarship and College Avenue Baptist Church in Lenoir.

In honoring Sylvia’s life, we remember a woman who was a source of strength and love, a true lady of kindness, and a dear friend to many. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Evans Funeral Service is honored to serve the family of Sylvia Pilkenton Icenhour.
Online condolences can be made at evansfuneralservice.com.