Life story

" Nova Joan (Jones) Sylvester was born in McLean, Texas on April 11, 1934, to Ernest and Verla (Hibler) Jones. She passed away January 26, 2023, in Albuquerque after a brief illness.

She attended West Texas State University and studied geology before meeting and marrying Charles H. Sylvester on August 25, 1955.

Nova and Chuck lived alternately in Texas and New Mexico over the years. During this time, Nova was a Beauty Consultant for Revlon for the Air Force Bases then later began her banking career in Dallas.

Chuck and Nova adopted their only daughter Holly, in August of 1965 in Odessa, Texas.

When Nova moved back to Albuquerque, NM in 1985 for the final time, she embarked on a career in retail that saw her work for Dillard’s including bridal, JC Penny’s makeup line “Becoming” and at Macy’s before her retirement.

Nova was known for always “dressing to the nines” with perfectly colored and styled hair, manicured nails, flawless makeup, coordinated outfits, and matching jewelry wherever she went.

She loved the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta which she attended yearly with her good friend Ann Rogers for over 40 years.

She loved music, liked to play the piano, could sew anything, was a good cook, and made people laugh. Nova like to attend music and art events including Popejoy Hall, Musical Theater Southwest, and Albuquerque Little Theater.

She had many good friends in Albuquerque which she certainly treasured. Nova was proud of her home in Casa Hermosa as well as her treasured neighbors over the years.

Nova and Holly had great time traveling together to see family and friends in Texas, cruising to Hawaii and the Bahamas, but most often to “The Last Frontier”, beloved Alaska on many cruises and grand adventures. Nova loved to shop for anything, but really enjoyed getting a bargain! One of her other passions was Halloween and she was known for her exciting dress up parties. She liked all holidays, really. Nova was a lifelong Methodist and steady in her faith.

Nova was preceded in death by her Mother, Verla Jones; Father Ernest Jones; ex-husband, Chuck Sylvester; Brother-in-law, Mike Luttrell; and nephew, Matt Luttrell.

Nova is survived by her daughter, Holly Sylvester-Crowder and Son-in-Law, Don Crowder of Albuquerque, NM as well as sister, Linda Luttrell Smith and Brother-in-law, Warren Smith of Round Rock, Texas.

A private celebration of life service will be held in October 2023. In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Barrett Foundation, a local artist fund, or your favorite charity.

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