Sylvia Thorson Smith

Sylvia Thorson Smith, 82, died on Wednesday evening, July 8, 2026 following a short spell of at-home hospice care in her Tucson apartment. Appropriately, a vivid rainbow arced across the sky at dusk that day.

Sylvia is survived by son Stefan Brueck, step-daughter Sara Smith, and Loki Smith (Airedale Extraordinaire). Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth (Fadness) and Hans Thorson as well as by her beloved husband, Rev. Michael D. Smith.

Sylvia was born and raised in Anchorage, AK, where she was the first baby baptized at Central Lutheran Church. She attended Pacific Lutheran University and later graduated from the University of Dubuque, marrying Rev. Robert Brueck around the same time. Son Stefan was born in Minot, ND and the household moved to Wichita, KS less than two years later. Sylvia started a master’s degree in sociology and women’s studies at Wichita State University, where Sylvia eventually taught. Sylvia and Robert divorced in 1983.

Sylvia was an active member of the Presbyterian Church. She served locally on the Task Force on Women and nationally on the Council on Women in the Church. It was here that Sylvia met the love of her life, Rev. Michael D. Smith. Mike and Sylvia married in 1985, the couple moving to Grinnell, IA shortly thereafter, where Sylvia taught at Grinnell College (her self-described dream job). When the pair retired, they relocated to Tucson.

An unbridled passion for justice-love and compassion defined Sylvia’s life in multiple ways, from advocating for women’s rights, to standing as an outspoken ally on LGBTQ issues, to supporting healthy sexuality, racial equity, Palestine, and progressive Democratic politics.

Smart, vivacious and an enthusiastic patron of the arts, Sylvia enjoyed reading, writing, music, TV, movies, and exploring fun, colorful fashion possibilities. She prioritized spending time with family and friends, adoring celebrations of all kinds. Proud of her Norwegian heritage, she traveled in both the U.S. and abroad whenever she had the chance. Sylvia too was a devoted dog lover throughout her life, a deep fondness for and connection to Terriers being evident.