Sylvia Mae Haynes

Obituary

Sylvia Mae (Smith) Haynes

December 22, 1944 – April 20, 2025

Sylvia "Sis" (Smith) Haynes was born December 22,1944 at Walker Creek, Wyoming to Harry and Cora Essie (Krebardis) Smith, and died peacefully at her home in Ten Sleep, Wyoming on April 20, 2025. She attended grade school in Douglas and Glenrock, then high school in Manville.

At a young age she married Willard Haynes, and they had four children before divorcing. She later met Buddy Bassett. They enjoyed many years together until his death. She considered his daughter like her own.

Throughout her life she persevered through many hardships without surrendering. She was not afraid of hard work and took on many roles, such as waiting tables, cooking, tending bar and taking in laundry. She cared for many members of her community who were sick and nearing the end of their lives.

She had an adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors. She and Buddy often went camping and fishing. They even spent one summer up on the Big Horns herding sheep, living in a sheep wagon. She loved spending time with her family and treasured each moment with her grandchildren.

She was very talented, spending time crocheting, knitting and doing embroidery. She was active in the Ten Sleep Senior Center and proud to serve on the board. Playing cards was also a favorite pastime and she belonged to the local Pinochle Club.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Walt and Larry, and sister, Mary Kay. Survivors include her brothers: Harry (Suzanne) Smith, John (Rosie) Smith and George Smith; cousin, Jolene "Jo" (Bill) Williams, who she considered like a sister. Her children: Cora Kline of Ten Sleep, Debbie (Neal) Guenthner of Billings, Montana, Steve Haynes of Basin, Wyoming, Shannon Haynes, also of Ten Sleep and Teresa (Bruce) McElhinny; grandchildren Dennis, Sylvia Nichole (Nick), Tawny, Megan, Ryan, Kaylee, Dawson, Dylan, Tracey (Nick), Dustin, Chase, Rosie (Chris) and Rogene, as well as many great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place and a private family gathering will take place in the Big Horns at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider donations in her name to the Ten Sleep Senior Center where she spent many happy moments with her amazing friends. Checks may be sent to PO Box 524, Worland, WY 82401. Online condolences may be made at www.bryantfuneralhomeonline.com.