Book of Condolences - In Loving Memory of Sylvia G. Perry
Let this space be a garden of memories, where each message blooms with the love, gratitude, and legacy she leaves behind.
Let this space be a garden of memories, where each message blooms with the love, gratitude, and legacy she leaves behind.
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Camila de Moura - BPW Florianópolis / Fortaleza - Brasil (Monday, 14 April 2025 17:59)
I did not have the opportunity to meet Sylvia Perry in person, but through the heartfelt stories I’ve heard and the powerful images shared, I can feel the strength, grace, and inspiration she brought to so many lives. Her legacy as a former President of BPW International is a testament to her leadership and commitment to empowering women around the world. May her light continue to guide and inspire us. With deep respect and condolences to her loved ones.
Lynette Robinson (Monday, 14 April 2025 19:17)
I first met Sylvia Perry in Venice in 1996 and served as Chair for Training and development under her. Wise, calm, dedicated, purposeful! I have had the privilege of meeting her in a different role when I joined BPWUK and can add great sense of humour, energy far beyond her years, a boundless sense of all things BPW and great humility. She leaves a void no one can fill. The greats are mostly gone now...a few remain. May we follow in their footsteps and not destroy what they have fought so hard to bring about. Let us honour their legacy and so keep them alive in our hearts and our actions.
NANA KOTILAIDZE-WETSI ( BPW UK /BPW INTERNATIONAL) (Monday, 14 April 2025 20:19)
I first time met Sylvia Perry in Newcastle BPW UK AGM & National Conference 2025 Tyne & Wear, I had privilege and honour to be close to her almost through out the conference, including closing dinner , which was wonderful and heartwarming experience that I will always remember.
Sometimes, we meet people in life who inspire us that we never forget, and such was Sylvia. Such an inspirational and incredible person, with her knowledge and insights, very strong and powerful woman that you would love to be with and learn more from.
Never would I imagine our last goodbye would be our meeting at the close of the last BPW conference.
My condolence to your family and all loved ones.
May your soul rest in perfect peace dear Sylvia, my thoughts will always be with you.
Christiana Olomolaiye ( BPW UK) (Tuesday, 15 April 2025 04:13)
Difficult to accept. Just last week we were together at conference in Newcastle. Who would have thought it? How would anyone have guessed? Sylvia you are a gem with a very pure heart, and now a shiny angel. We will definitely miss you. A friend like no other. A rare gem.You will forever remain in our hearts ��
Dr. Anastacia Lewis President BPW Bahamas (Tuesday, 15 April 2025 04:57)
A Tribute in Memory of Sylvia G. Perry
Past International President, Business and Professional Women International
From BPW Bahamas
It is with deep sorrow and profound respect that we, the members of BPW Bahamas, extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing of our beloved Past International President, Sylvia G. Perry.
Sylvia G. Perry was a beacon of strength, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the ideals and mission of BPW. As an international leader, she stood as a pillar of empowerment, tirelessly advocating for the advancement of women around the globe. Her remarkable vision, poised leadership, and enduring legacy have left an indelible mark on the global BPW movement and on each of us who had the privilege to learn from her.
To BPW Bahamas, she was not only a distinguished leader, but also a mentor, a sister in purpose, and a source of inspiration. Her commitment to professional development, equality, and mentorship resonated deeply within our l chapter and uplifted generations of Bahamian women.
Today, we honor her life, her service, and the countless lives she touched. As we reflect on her legacy, we recommit ourselves to the work she so passionately championed. May her memory continue to inspire courage, dignity, and excellence in all we do.
Rest in power, Madam President. Your light will never fade from our hearts.
Women have so much influence
Our job is to nurture and build
I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have met Past International President Sylvia Perry who poured into me as a New President BPW Bahamas she believed in me and taught me the BPW way. So many lessons so many instructions I’m grateful to BPW UK President Jo Kinsey who made sure that I meet this remarkable Leader in BPW International 55 years of her life in the International Federation of Business Professional Women BPW International
Our last encounter in the Uk was 29 March 2025 with a wonderful dinner at her home Myself UK President Mrs Jo Kinsey and 1st Vice President & UN Representative Ms Neelima Basnet. We truly appreciate this outpouring we will never forget you have served us well
RIP Past International President Mrs. Sylvia Perry
With love and respect,
BPW Bahamas
Empowering Women. Inspiring Change.
Myriam Heidelberger Kaufmann, Co-President BPW Switzerland (Tuesday, 15 April 2025 12:33)
It is very sad to loose PIP Sylvia Perry as a strong leader of and within our organisation, and sametime a big comfort to know, that there are so many who were influenced, mentored and strengthened by her.
We are her legacy - and we will do whatever is needed to bring the fruit back home.
Thank you very much, dear PIP Sylvia and may you rest in peace.
BPW Switzerland
KOUAKOU AFFOUE LEONIE (Tuesday, 15 April 2025 20:24)
Nous ne nous sommes jamais rencontrées, mais à lire tous ces hommages à son endroit, je pense que Mme Silvia G. PERRY était une bonne âme. Elle a impacté par ses actions en faveur de la femme.
Que son âme repose dans la félicité céleste.
BPW BASSAM Abidjan
Joanne Kinsey BPW UK President (Tuesday, 15 April 2025 21:44)
PIP Sylvia Perry has been a mentor and friend for many years. Her encouragement and support to me and to others , has helped in my professional life and in my personal life. PIP Sylvia’s knowledge of the United Nations and IFBPW inner workings is second to none, and she was willing to share this experience so willingly and freely. No better governance tutor could be found, and we were all tested on this at different times in our BPW journeys.
To me PIP Sylvia exemplified the qualities that every BPW member should strive towards. She has forged a path for us, that we must now follow.
Thank you Sylvia, my dear friend, to me you are irreplaceable.
Sue Dewey OBE (Tuesday, 15 April 2025 22:33)
Sylvia was always wonderful company. I was a little bit scared of her when I first joined BPW because she had such gravitas and was this hugely impressive presence at conferences.
As I got to know her and hear her passion for our aims and the work of BPW, it made me want to be more involved and spurred me on to join the Board. I wish I had gone to some of the international events so that I could have seen her in her heyday. Even at the last virtual meeting I attended, she was still leading the way with her incredible knowledge of all things BPW. Her brilliance never dimmed.
RIP Sylvia - you will be much missed
xxx
Isobel Chivers, BPW UK. (Tuesday, 15 April 2025 22:35)
Difficult to fathom how this vibrant, sharp minded and wise lady could be taken from us so suddenly. Sylvia has been a shining beacon for us in BPW and has recruited so many of us through gentle, and not always so subtle persuasion, but always recognising what we could achieve and helping us to do so. Truly inspirational and such a sad loss to all.
N Nadia Touby Eko ( BPW Congo Brazzaville) (Wednesday, 16 April 2025 01:03)
Sincères condoléances à sa famille biologique et celle de BPW.
J ai lu plusieurs articles la concernant , un témoignage émouvant.
Je comprends que c était une belle âme, son sourire et son engagement restent indélébiles.
Encore merci pour tout ce qu elle a pu apporter aux femmes BPW et d ailleurs dans leur leadership.
Stella Kammitsi (BPW Cyprus) (Wednesday, 16 April 2025 13:23)
While I did not have the honor of knowing Sylvia Perry personally, I’ve come to appreciate the depth of her character and the impact of her life through the heartfelt stories shared by our BPW sisters who knew her and as being a woman of extraordinary strength, unwavering grace, and profound inspiration. Her presence left a lasting impact on all those fortunate enough to cross her path.
Her tenure as a former President of BPW International, speaks volumes about her dedication to uplifting others and advancing the cause of women’s empowerment across the globe. Though she may no longer be with us in person, the light she brought into the world continues to shine through the many lives she touched. May her spirit remain a guiding force and an enduring source of inspiration for all of us.
With heartfelt sympathy and the deepest respect, I extend my condolences to her family, friends, and BPWI who mourn her loss.
ruth Galwey, BPW UK Northern Ireland Area Co-ordinator (Wednesday, 16 April 2025 13:46)
The members of BPW UK in Northern Ireland are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of PNP Sylvia Perry. Sylvia was the epitome of a Business and Professional Women, clear in her intent but always kind and respectful in her manner. Sylvia’s knowledge of BPW governance and protocol was second to none. She had time for everyone, was personable and fun to be with. Sylvia will be a great loss to our organisation and to those to whom she was a friend.
Jill Turner, BPW UK (Wednesday, 16 April 2025 14:05)
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Sylvia’s recent and unexpected passing.
I joined BPW in 1995 and Sylvia was most welcoming and supportive. She was indeed a special and much loved person offering friendship, vision and commitment on numerous aspects of BPW life always with an eye to the bigger picture, good governance and her Christian principles.
Kandiah Pathmaseni (Wednesday, 16 April 2025 16:21)
I joined BPW UK in 2009. I, first met Sylvia Perry for the first time in 2017 - A warm and inspiring person.
She is gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.
Chris Nendick (Wednesday, 16 April 2025)
A wonderful,kind and inspiring lady who will be sadly missed
Anu Viks BPW Europe Regional Coordinator (Wednesday, 16 April 2025 16:54)
Past International President Sylvia Perry was a well of knowledge and a great role model. Sylvia Perry was an extraordinary person. She was daily working for BPW and carrying the mission for women empowerment and peace. I was very impressed reading her book "Bus to the 42nd Street" about the dedication with which she and other BPW International members worked during the IV World Conference for Women in 1995 in Beijing. Big amount of thei work is carried in the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
Sylvia Perry had a big and warm heart where she had a pleace for everyone of us. She always found time to listen and help. Her dignity and respect was incredible.
I am very very sad. It is a big loss for BPW.
Sueli Batista dos Santos (Wednesday, 16 April 2025 19:40)
My condolences on the passing of Sylvia Perry, a leader who left her legacy.
Ghada Shami Christofides, BPW Cyprus (Thursday, 17 April 2025 11:15)
I never had the honour to meet her. What a great loss !
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Evelyn Nwabudike , BPW UK (Thursday, 17 April 2025 12:00)
A tribute in memory of Sylvia G.perry past international president,BPW.
I did not have the opportunity to meet Sylvia Perry in person,but I have heard so many things about her.
With honor, respect and condolences to her loved ones.
SUE HOLTOM (Thursday, 17 April 2025 13:28)
I am so grateful to have shared over 25 years of my life with Sylvia Perry. She was always such a life force. Sylvia gave not only sound advice; she also gave me practical support and guidance when I most needed it. I knew I could rely on her sound judgement. She was the epitome of a feminist and an example for us all to follow. Much missed but will never be forgotten.
Susana Lerga (Thursday, 17 April 2025 13:29)
Aun que no he tenido oportunidad de conocerla , conocemos su gran labor para la institucion BPW . Mis condolencias a su familia y seres queridos
Shan McEwing (Thursday, 17 April 2025 17:35)
So sad to hear this news. Condolences to her family and to her BPW family. She was a beautiful woman who I had the privilege to meet in Lethbridge at the Alberta Provincial Conference and then again when the International Congress was in Vancouver. Her unwavering strength and wisdom will not be forgotten.
Karin Gorgerat (Thursday, 17 April 2025 19:10)
PIP Sylvia Perry was a true treasure within BPW and she will be deeply missed. She was an inspiration to us all and a mentor to many. She could always be counted on to share her wisdom and guidance, and she worked endlessly for the best interest of IFBPW. PIP Sylvia has left us a legacy that we can all aspire to follow. I will miss her caring attitude and friendship. Thank you, Sylvia for all you have done, and may you rest in the knowledge that we will continue your valuable work.
Siiri Puttonen- BPW Estonia, Green club (Friday, 18 April 2025 09:30)
In Loving Memory of Sylvia G. Perry
Sylvia was a beacon of wisdom, integrity, and dedication — a true trailblazer whose legacy continues to inspire us. As Past International President of BPW, she carried our mission forward with unwavering strength and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.
I had the privilege of working closely with Sylvia during the past triennium as we built the foundations of BPW’s international green movement. She was not only a mentor, but also a pillar of strength and clarity in our Green Team. Her voice, rooted in justice and deep care for the planet, helped shape the BPW Green and Sustainable Resolution — a document we co-wrote with shared purpose and urgency. Sylvia stood firmly for sustainability, equality, and intergenerational responsibility, and it is my heartfelt hope that this resolution, born out of our collective efforts, will be adopted globally — as a tribute to her enduring vision.
Sylvia’s leadership extended far beyond policies. She empowered others, believed in the potential of every woman, and reminded us to act boldly for the future we believe in. In her memory, we continue the work she so passionately championed — building green ambassadors, sustainable businesses, and a resilient world led by women.
Thank you, Sylvia, for your unwavering commitment, your wisdom, and your warmth. Your legacy lives on in every action we take to create a greener, fairer future.
Cristina Gorajski Visconti (Friday, 18 April 2025 09:49)
I'm grateful to have met her and appreciate her commitment.
Dear Silvya, thank you very much for all you have done for BPW and all of us.
R.I.P.
Marie-Claude Machon-Honoré (Friday, 18 April 2025 11:35)
Syvia Perry 's brutal passing away was a shock after watching her and listening to her insightful online presentation at the Leaders' Summit off NY CSW69.
She was an inspiration and had a great wealth of knowledge she would happily share with BPW members across the world. I had a personal connection with Sylvia when I was applying for BPW International UN VP position four years ago; she was so committed to noble values and caring that we will not forget her.
May her soul rest in Peace! I extend my hearfelt condolences to her family and BPW International Community
Janice Bancroft (Friday, 18 April 2025 11:50)
I met Sylvia approximately 46 years ago after hearing her name on local TV following the inaugural meeting of the 300 Group. It wasn't long before I was a signed-up member of the "new" Bristol Club within BPW UK.
Throughout our time together we have worked for and with a number of women's organisations, including BPW UK , BPW International and The Arab International Women's Forum (AIWF).
We have travelled the world together but most notable was attending the UN 4th World Conference on Women in 1995 in Beijing. You have all heard our tales from this particular trip which was really quite an experience!
Sylvia was a great mentor and true friend. She had a huge capacity for work but also for friendship and fun. We have had so many great laughs together which I will always remember - but not just at the moment when the shock and sadness of her passing is so raw.
I'm so grateful to have had such a great mentor and friend in my life , Sylvia . You are truly one of the great women who will be remembered. I shall miss you forever but shall always remember you and our times together with thanks, with pride and with great joy.
Rest in peace, dearest Sylvia
Sue Brown, (Friday, 18 April 2025 12:17)
Sylvia was an inspirational lady who was passionate about women’s right around the world and took positive action to try and ensure them. It was a privilege to know her and especially to be able to call her my friend. Her passing feels like the end of an era.
Gudrun S. Jakobsdottir (Friday, 18 April 2025 15:11)
I first met Silvia G. Perry in 1997 when she came to Iceland for the 9th European Conference of BPW.
I had recently joined BPW and felt it was a great honor to meet her. I remember so well how elegant and dignified I found her, but at the same time so friendly, warm and inspiring. She was still that way when I had the honor of visiting her at her home in January last year, then at almost 90 years of age, still a pillar of BPW and with kindness many memories were reminisced.
Silvia is one of the pillars of BPW, who will always be remembered with love, gratitude and respect for all that she gave BPW with her 55 years of service.
Dolores Otañez.BPW Ecuador (Friday, 18 April 2025 15:52)
Sentido pésame por la partida de una gran líder, uno de lis pilares de BPW International .
John Spurrier-Davies (Friend of BPW) (Friday, 18 April 2025 16:13)
It was with great sadness I learned of the passing of Sylvia. She had been a great friend and mentor for many years of my wife, Lorna Spurrier-Davies, who had passed away in 2020. They became friends when Lorna joined BPW in about 1980, and they met through the Public Speaking Competition which they both supported.
I am pleased to say that Sylvia became a friend of mine as I supported BPW through the years as well. Two wonderful ladies who will both be missed.
Carole Shaw (Friday, 18 April 2025 16:39)
My dear Sylvia. Your kindness, generosity, wisdom and intelligence will be sorely missed by us all in BPW. You were passionate about BPW and had such patience with us newbies. I’m so glad we met just after Helsinki and had to opportunity to laugh and learn alongside of you. You have mentored many people over the years and been a good friend to many of us. May you find peace in your journeys forward and rest knowing your legacy is a strong one. Sending love and strength to her family. Carole
Eufemia Ippolito Past BPW International EFO (Friday, 18 April 2025 17:12)
I had the honor and pleasure of knowing Sylvia. I have always considered her a teacher of Values!
She taught us to act with Legality, Transparency, Clarity and Honesty.
Sylvia we will miss you ! R.I.P �
Eufemia
Chularst( Toyting) Israngkool Na Ayutthaya BPW Bangkok-Thailand (Friday, 18 April 2025 17:40)
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Sylvia Perry
Past President, BPW International
Sylvia Perry was a remarkable leader and an extraordinary woman whose vision, strength, and unwavering dedication shaped the path of BPW International. Her tireless work and compassionate spirit left a lasting impact on women around the world. She inspired generations with her wisdom and grace, and her legacy will continue to guide and uplift our global community.
We will always remember her as a shining light in BPW — a mentor, a role model, and a true friend to many.
My deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, and to all members of BPW International who mourn her passing.
May she rest in eternal peace.
Chularat (Toyting) Israngkool Na Ayutthaya
Vice President United Nations, BPW International 2021–2024
Dawne Williams (Saturday, 19 April 2025 01:51)
In celebrating the life of Past International President (PIP) Mrs. Sylvia Perry, who dedicated her years to giving to others, including our august organisation, The International Federation of Business and Professional Women, we can’t help but to reflect on a journey filled with integrity, compassion, generosity and unwavering kindness.
From the very first time we met, her heart was open, warm and welcoming. She knew no boundaries, race, religious etc. and hers was a life of volunteering, mentoring, or simply offering a listening ear to anyone who needed it and her actions spoke volumes about her character. She understood that the greatest gift she could give is not measured in material wealth but in love, kindness, commitment and support shared with others.
Her legacy is rich with stories of impact- each act of kindness creating ripples in the lives of those she touched. She taught us that giving is about what we do, but even more about who we become in the process. Her laughter, warmth and wisdom have enriched our lives, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from lifting others up!!
As I honour this extraordinary, phenomenal lady, I also celebrate her long life, years spent with us and the countless lives she transformed during that time. Her spirit will continue to inspire us to carry forward the torch of integrity, love, kindness, commitment, tenacity and to always seek ways to give back.
I end this tribute by expressing my deepest gratitude for her life of service and the impact she has left on us all! Here is to a life well-lived, a heart well-given and a legacy that will endure generations to come!
Sleep on PIP Sylvia, Rest in Eternal Peace and Rise in Glory!
Francesca Burack (Saturday, 19 April 2025 11:19)
It is difficult to find the right words to tell the whole story of Sylvia Perry. Sylvia was a woman of integrity with high standards of excellence which she demonstrated to us everyday. Sylvia's light shined bright leading the way when our organization strayed. Sylvia was compassionate, and let her voice ring out among us even when others tried to silence her. Sylvia was a mentor, a leader, a woman of courage who was always there when we needed her. Sylvia was with us at the Leaders Summit in NYC this year, 2025, on zoom speaking to us about BPW her love of the organization beaming through. What a terrible loss this is for all of us! She gifted us so often with her words of wisdom. Her legacy lives on through us. We must exemplify her spirit of sisterhood, act in the kindness of ways and hold true to our values and mission of BPW. That is how to repay Sylvia for all that she gave to us - living her example!! Rest in peace dear sister. We miss you.
Primrose Wilson BPW UK Northern Ireland (Saturday, 19 April 2025 15:25)
I remember Sylvia with great affection. During the years of the Troubles in Northern Ireland many BPW members from rest of UK were reluctant to travel to our events but not Sylvia. She and Keith came regularly and were always welcomed with great warmth by BPW N. Ireland.
On Friday 5 April I was Chairing the Judges for the Public Speaking Competition in Newcastle. Sylvia's face was the first I recognised when I walked in to the room. She came rushing over beaming and I got an enormous hug. Goodness it felt special to be greeted like that!
Sylvia - You were a shining light and a great example to us all of tenacity and courage.
May you rest in Peace.
Carmen Taheny BPW Ireland and European Secretary (Saturday, 19 April 2025 17:58)
I had always heard about Sylvia for many years and I first met her when she came to Galway to the European Congress in 2019. She was an inspiration to everyone so interesting to talk to and her knowledge of BPW was just amazing she has done such great work for this organisation and has been a wonderful mentor to so many people. She has left us with a wonderful legacy may she rest in peace. RIP Sylvia you will be greatly missed.
Susan Jones - Australia (Monday, 21 April 2025 08:46)
BPW has lost one of its greatest treasures and, to so many, a dear friend.
I have known Sylvia since 1996, when she was elected International President at the Venice Congress. For thirty years, I had the privilege of calling this remarkable woman my friend. Our relationship broadened over the years, and contact was frequent. It was mostly BPW, but often just a friendly chat, which resulted in a deep and lasting friendship. My last contact with Sylvia was days before her passing. It was a call full of excitement because she had been able to attend the UK National Conference just short of her 90th birthday!
Sylvia was fun to be with. She had a wonderful sense of humour, and laughter came easily in her presence. Her sharp intellect and knowledge of BPW were unsurpassed, and her kindness radiated genuine care and compassion for others. Above all, Sylvia was fair; her character was marked by impartiality and honesty. Her unwavering belief in justice was a beacon for us all.
Sylvia was a wonderful mentor to so many. She gave her knowledge so willingly and was always delighted when someone she mentored progressed through BPW. One of whom was very special to her: Jo Kinsey, a member of Sylvia’s club who rose to President of BPW UK under Sylvia’s mentorship. They became dear friends, and Sylvia took great joy in Jo’s achievements.
Throughout her distinguished BPW membership, Sylvia received BPW International’s two most prestigious awards: the Lena Madesin Philips Award in 2008 and the Badge of Honour in 2017.
We stand on the shoulders of great women like Sylvia. She was a fierce advocate for women’s rights with an unwavering dedication to gender equality. She paved the way for those who followed. We will forever honour her legacy and continue the fight in her memory.
Although the pain of loss is still very raw, I find solace in the beautiful memories we shared and rejoice in the wonderful years we were blessed with this remarkable woman. I will miss her.
RIP dear Sylvia
Lisa Fong, UN ESCAP Representative (BPW Hong Kong SAR) (Monday, 21 April 2025 09:08)
I had the honour to meet PIP Sylvia Perry a handful of times, and I recalled our conversations as peaceful, filled with her calming energy, and educational, thanks to her vast knowledge of the work that we do at BPW International. May we continue her good work, and thank you for her invaluable contributions. RIP Sylvia.
Yara BLOCHTEIN (Monday, 21 April 2025 19:12)
A Tribute to Past International President Sylvia G. Perry
We first time we met in 1993 BPW International Congress in Nagoya, Japan and from that moment on, we shared a special connection.
She was not only a great friend but also a true visionary and mentor.
From that moment, her leadership and personal warmth left a lasting impression on me, and from that moment
She was not only a great friend but also a true visionary and mentor.
When I began planting trees project , she told me: “Do what you believe — that’s the way.” Her words still guide me today.
Her words still guide” my environmental initiatives and continue to inspire my work.
Sylvia’s legacy will remain in our hearts.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Yara Blochtein
BPW Brazil
Member, Environment Committee – BPW Latin America
Member, Environment Committee – BPW International
Judith Crowe (BPW UK and formerly affiliated to BPW France also) (Tuesday, 22 April 2025 16:05)
Learning of Sylvia's death whilst I was still travelling home to the south of France after attending the BPW UK annual conference only a week before was a total shock. We had spent the last night's farewell dinner at the same table, and had talked about the many problems we were both facing, mainly due to our advancing ages. And a week later - she is gone! I can hardly take it in.
I first worked with Sylvia in 1978, 4 short years after I joined BPW, when we met on a national committee created to look at the future of the organisation, and I was asked to serve on it as the "young and new BPW" member who asked questions and was then a bit of rebel. I was still in my mid 20's joining long before Young BPW existed, and I was recruited to ask the question "why do we do it like that?" Wendy Hogg (another UK PNP and PIVP, also now deceased) chaired, and between them they taught me so much about BPW. Yes, our discussions were very much constitutionally based - Sylvia's knowledge even then being notable.
Thus she became one of my long term BPW friends and mentors and continued so to the end, 47 years later. She and my other BPW mentors and friends have helped and guided me along the way through life until I too have become "an ancient" in BPW terms.
I shall very much miss her advice, especially her knowledge of the constitution and governance matters, a subject in which I took a great interest too. But it is as a constant in my life, as a friend who was always there when needed, that I shall miss her most. I am ever grateful that I knew her and the world seems somewhat strange still without her with us any more.
Ruth Galwey (Wednesday, 23 April 2025 22:22)
I’ve been a member of BPW for many years but only recently got to know Sylvia better. I wish I’d known her years ago when she was younger and even more active than she was over the last few years. Only now I’m beginning to learn just how far her reach was and what a trailblazer she was.
I was so fortunate to be in her company during our National Conference which turned out to be her last weekend. We parted with a hug and a kiss on the last day. If I’d known what was to come so soon after I’d have held on a little longer.
Rest in peace Sylvia and may your legacy burn bright for years to come.
Jacqui McLoughlin (Sunday, 27 April 2025 19:19)
Sylvia was the perfect example of what it is to be a BPW member - she was always kind, thoughtful & great company but never forgot how we need to work together to achieve our goals.
I had the privilege of working alongside Sylvia on UKFEC and also in our International Working Group. She was always the voice of reason and we will so miss her wonderful advice and her love for life.
It was wonderful that she was at our conference this year & I shall so treasure her books which she happily signed for me at that event.
May she rest in peace.
Liz Jowett (BPW UK) (Sunday, 27 April 2025 19:29)
Coming from the other end of England,compared to Sylvia, I spent most of my time with her on Zoom calls but throughout that time, Sylvia's total commitment to BPW shone out,along with her strength which fuelled that commitment. Like my BPW UK colleagues, I was so shocked to hear of her death. She and I were actually messaging each other on the evening of her passing. It was BPW business, of course! What commitment and what strength! God bless, Sylvia!
Margo Davidson-Wood (BPW UK) (Sunday, 27 April 2025 20:57)
I first had the privilege of meeting and working with Sylvia just before (in Lethbridge, Alberta) and during the IFBPW Congress in Vancouver, in 1999.
It was such an honour to receive her ‘President’s Award’ for running the Cyber Café in Vancouver. She introduced me to so much about BPW in general and specifically about IFBPW. Watching her work and how she spoke at the various Sessions was a true inspiration.
I visited the UK shortly after Congress and Sylvia very kindly arranged for me to visit the then International Head Office in Cloisters, Battersea. That in itself was overwhelming and a real inspiration. When I repatriated to the UK in 2018, she kindly advised me about BPW UK and of course I subsequently joined! It was wonderful to catch up again in person when I visited President Jo and Sylvia invited us to supper. I loved hearing all about her BPW background and all things BPW. A wonderful, inspirational and kind woman indeed and she really will be missed by so many. Rest In Peace dear Sylvia.
Elizabeth Benham (Monday, 28 April 2025 06:24)
Words cannot describe the shock when the news came that my dear friend Sylvia had passed. The devastating news came after only a short time since we had discussed meeting up In Malta at the European Conference this upcoming May. I had missed her very much at our International Congress in St Kitts, November 2024. She had wanted to attend but had to remain home to take care of her husband Keith.
Sylvia Perry was elected president at the IFBPW Congress in Venice in 1996 which was the first one I attended after becoming a member. This is where I first met Sylvia. I travelled to many BPW Conferences as a keen BPW member. We connected many times after that but at the North American Regional Conference held in St Maarten in 1997 and our 30-year deep friendship began. A major supplier of product that I imported for my business was from a factory based in Cardiff, Wales. On my business trips to the factory, I frequently stopped enroute to visit Sylvia and Keith at their home in Bristol, UK. In 1998 Sylvia appointed me as a United Nations representative for IFBPW in New York, a position which I served in for 20 years until 2018. My home was on Long Island, New York and so I frequently hosted Sylvia during her presidency and after her term it was Dr Pat Harrison. I stored all the things that was needed for the annual CSW meetings at the United Nations in New York such as fax machines, printers and paper, tools that at that time, were essential to facilitate the daily communications in the organization. This was also to save on rental expenses and included bedding linens (for all those BPWs sharing the accommodations) tea kettles etc.
Sylvia and I worked closely on many projects and serious issues over the years, and it was always such a joy! She had invited me to Damascus, Syria when I was president to speak at the Arab Women’s Conference that she was connected to. This was an experience that remains vividly in my memory.
The major project that we both looked forward to work on was a promise, overdue from 2011 in my term as President, to write the next segment of BPW International history from 1995 -2015. Unfortunately, due to life’s circumstances for both of us, it was delayed a few times and now sadly I will do so without her. In our years of friendship Sylvia was always caring, thoughtful, visionary, professional, respectful, and honest with a fierce loyalty dedicated to her passion for BPW. This was the strong bond that we shared.
Although words cannot express the pain of loss that is very raw, I try to find comfort in the beautiful memories that we shared and the many hours of hard work that we invested in BPW. I, and BPW, were blessed with her leadership and unwavering strength. I will always miss her very much. Life is fragile and we never know when it ends. This loss of my dear friend Sylvia is very hard to bear.
Neelima Basnet (Wednesday, 30 April 2025 17:49)
In the year 2017 I received the book from Liz Benham “A bus to 42nd street” written by Sylvia Perry about the role of Esther W Hymer at United Nations. That is when I understand the meaning of “If one person can make a difference then everyone should try”. Since then I was motivated to learn from the opportunities IFBPW had to offer at United Nations. In the following year I had the honor of meeting her personally and was inspired by her down to earth personality. During my role as young BPW international representative(2017-2021) she guided me how to serve for BPW members. I joint BPW UK because I wanted to learn from the best and she was always there to share her knowledge. Last time I met her was at BPW UK AGM last month where I had the honor to spend time with her and see her passion and dedication for BPW. I believe this is what BPW is all about. I will try to walk in her footsteps and try to work towards united BPW like she did all her life. �
Sharon Selkirk (Saturday, 10 May 2025 18:45)
I just found out that my long time friend passed on last month. My condolences to her family. I have many wonderful memories of our times together. I will cherish them forever. God has taken her into His home.
Bessie R.Hironimus (Wednesday, 14 May 2025 00:24)
I will try to write my farewell to dear Sylvia Perry, my friend, my mentor for many years. The shock of learning that she has left us has been terrible, as we had just talked that week. It is so difficult to accept that she is no longer with us. Her leaving us has left such a vacuum in many hearts.
Not only was she a BPW friend, she was a personal friend of so many. Besides our friendship of several decades, I had the honor of working with her as Constitutional Advisors, and she was always there when I was Executive Secretary, with her wise, discreet advice. A dedicated BPW member, a loving wife of her husband Keith, a faithful, hard worker in her Church, all who were lucky enough to know her were touched by her in their lives.
Besides the many memories I have, I am also lucky to have an original copy of the book that Sylvia and Livia Ricci wrote, A Bus to 42nd Street, which has been signed by both authors.
Sylvia will be missed by thousands around the world. Her work, friendship, and the memories of meeting whether in person, at Conferences and meetings, by phone or electronically, will remain with us, knowing that we were honored to have her in our lives. She was admired and respected by all.
Until we meet again, my dear friend.
Bessie R. Hironimus