Sylvia Jacqueline Vercillo, 61, of Christopher, passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Du Quoin Nursing and Rehab in Du Quoin, Illinois.

She was born on September 11, 1964 to Jose Ruiz and Carolyn (Goudy) Ruiz in Murphysboro, Illinois. She married Joseph Smith on May 18, 1984, in Murphysboro, Illinois, and out of this union came her daughter, Jennifer Smith. On May 22, 1997, she married John Vercillo in Ontonagon, Michigan.

Sylvia formerly worked as an Administrative Assistant at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. She loved nature and enjoyed hiking in the woods, especially around Rend Lake. She enjoyed good movies, music, collecting photos, and baking.

Survivors include her husband, John, of The Villages, FL; daughter, Jennifer Smith; three brothers, Philip Ruiz of Mundelein, IL, Michael (Alicia) Ruiz of Carbondale, IL, and Brian (Margaret) Ruiz of East Carondelet, IL; one grandchild, Adam Smith; sister-in-law, Karen Falco of The Villages, FL; along with four nieces and three nephews.

Along her parents, she is preceded in death by her brothers, Paul Ruiz and Craig Ruiz; along with her grandparents.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 11:00 AM with Celebrant Father Joel Seipp at Saint Andrew Catholic Church in Murphysboro.

Interment will follow the service at Saint Andrew Catholic Cemetery.

Crain Pleasant Grove-Murdale Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.