CONCORD TOWNSHIP - Sylvia Copich Fabian, 101, formerly of E. Kline Street in Girard, passed away peacefully, Friday morning, December 6, 2024, at Vista Springs Quail Highlands after a long and fulfilling life.

Sylvia was born June 22, 1923, in Niles, the daughter of the late Joseph and Frances (Rebek) Copich. She was an honor graduate of Niles High School, Class of 1941 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Education from Youngstown College in 1945. Sylvia began her career as a teacher in Youngstown Schools, where she made a lasting impact on her students. Five of her former elementary students — Dorothy Granchie, Jo Ann Raddi, Dr. Suzanne Gordon, Roseann Stackhouse, and Polly Flood — remained close friends and kept in touch with her for over 50 years, sending letters and postcards during their travels.

In 1960, Sylvia married Stephen Fabian, with whom she shared more than 60 years of marriage before his passing in 2023.

A devoted member of St. Rose Church, Sylvia served as a CCD teacher, Social Chairperson, and a 50-year member of Catholic Collegiate. Her community involvement extended to roles as a Girl Scout leader and a supporter of the Girard Band Boosters. She also remained a lifelong member of the Youngstown College Alumni Association and SNPJ Lodge 643.

After her daughters left for college, Sylvia became a docent at the Butler Institute of American Art, a role she held for 29 years. She loved giving tours to schoolchildren, presenting biographies of American artists to adults, and working in the gift shop. Sylvia's passion for learning continued well into her 60s and 70s through Elderhostel programs, which she and Stephen enjoyed during their travels across the United States.

Sylvia embraced her Slovenian heritage by baking poticas for friends and family during Christmas and Easter and maintaining correspondence in Slovenian with relatives abroad. She was also an accomplished needle-pointer, cross-stitcher, and quilter, frequently entering her works in competitions.

Sylvia leaves to forever cherish her memory, her two daughters, Caroline (Doug) Vicchiarelli of Sagamore Hills and Louise (Keith) Vouk of Kirtland; her four grandchildren, Gabrielle, Hannah, Dylan, and Carlin; her sister-in-law, Alexandria Copich along with many nieces, nephews, and grandnieces and grandnephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Sylvia was preceded in death by her brother, William Copich.

Family and friends may call from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Friday, December 13, 2024, at St. Rose Church, 48 E. Main Street, Girard, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m.

Private interment will follow at St. Stephen Cemetery in Niles, where Sylvia will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Sylvia's name to either Hospice of the Western Reserve Palliative Care, 17876 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44110 or Butler Institute of American Art, 524 Wick Ave, Youngstown, Ohio 44502.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Girard.