Sylvia Whitney Scott
January 3, 1944 - September 5, 2025
Sylvia Whitney Scott, 81, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2025, in Millcreek, Utah. Born on January 3, 1944, in Billings, Montana, Sylvia carried the spirit of her hometown with her throughout her life.
A proud graduate of Billings Senior High School in the class of 1962, Sylvia began her professional journey as a cosmetologist at Western Drug in Billings. Her passion for beauty and connection with people led her to a position at the cosmetic counter at Hennessy’s department store. In 1979, she relocated to Salt Lake City, Utah, where she embraced new opportunities—first selling life insurance with Globe Life and later finding great success as a realtor with Coldwell Banker. Her career path reflected her adaptability and determination.
Sylvia was a woman of many passions. She had an extraordinary love for flowers and plants, spending countless hours nurturing her vibrant flower beds and houseplants. Her hostas were especially admired by neighbors and passersby alike. Halloween brought out her creative spirit; it was her favorite holiday to decorate for. She also enjoyed antiques, acrylic pour art, and immersing herself in history through books and television, particularly programs on the History Channel and police crime dramas.
Her heart remained tied to Billings, Montana, which she always considered home. She found joy in camping trips with her dear friend Murry Moffat and had a lifelong affection for dogs. In later years, she grew fond of cats as well—especially Snickers, Jasmine and Bailey—with Bailey faithfully curling up beside her each night.
Sylvia loved to travel and often spoke of places she still wished to see. Yet what she cherished most was time spent with family. She deeply loved her children: Daren (Laura) Critelli, Cobie (Eric) Bozich, and Chelsea (Gregg) Godfrey; her grandchildren: Kalie (Kevin) Graham, Derrick Bozich, Brooke (Jacob) Austin, Hannah Peterson, Ellie Peterson, and Jade Critelli; and her great-grandchildren: Parker Graham and Jack Graham. She delighted in receiving photos of them and treasured every conversation shared.
She also held close bonds with extended family members including Christine Miller (niece) and David Whitney (nephew). Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents Frank Taggert Whitney and Frances Nellie Vertin; sisters Diane Miller and Bonnie Whitney; brother Frank Whitney; aunts Mary Maudlin and Louise DeVore; and nephew Jason Miller.
Sylvia’s warmth extended beyond family; she loved chatting with friends and neighbors over lunch or at gatherings. Her presence brought comfort to those around her.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Intermountain Health Hospice nurses and aides who provided compassionate care during Sylvia’s final year.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriners Hospital or the Humane Society—two causes close to Sylvia’s heart.
May Sylvia’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her. A Celebration of Life will be held on September 20, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor 3651 South 900 East. In Full Bloom: A Time to Honor Sylvia Whitney Scott. Family and Friends are invited to celebrate the life of Sylvia.
In Loving Memory
I knew and enjoyed Sylvia during my time at Mansell Real Estate and thereafter in a spiritually oriented real estate gathering called The La Las. She was always great fun in spite of her serious challenges. She will be greatly missed!
My heart is full of sadness and I am praying for Sylvia’s family. She will always be beautiful , and loved by me. Sylvia was beautiful on the inside and always lived her life with Grace💕 I will miss her dear friend ship.💔
Such a sweet lady, along with her special sisters. She will be missed by many. Go in grace Sylvia. ❤️
I remember Sylvia so fondly from our Pilates class at the Mt Olympus Senior Center. Such a lovely lady.
Dear friends and family, I only knew Sylvia for a short time. She was married to my older brother, but they lived far away, so we didn't get to see her often. I wish I could be at her celebration of life, but unfortunately, that isn't possible. I send you my love and condolences, and I am grateful to the Lord God for allowing me to meet such a wonderful person.
Sylvia and I were first grader class mates at North Park Elementary in Billings. Always a friend, always friends, that was Sylvia. One of the truly nice people one could ever know. Sylvia, your passing on among the best of people.
In Loving Memory
