Sydna K. Zilm
Sydna K Zilm, a beacon of love and wisdom, passed away peacefully due to natural causes on February 1, 2024, at the age of 61 in San Tan Valley, Arizona. Born on January 12, 1963, in Provo, Utah, to her late parents Neldon and Tamara Boren, Sydna's life was a testament to her enduring spirit and her unwavering commitment to her family, education, and the betterment of others.
Sydna's life was marked by her pursuit of knowledge and her passion for teaching. After graduating from Orem High School, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Science from Southern Utah State College and a Master of Science from Northern Arizona University. At the time of her passing, she was working towards her Ph.D. at Grand Canyon University. Her academic achievements were not just for personal growth but were the foundation of her professional life. Her career as an educator was as diverse as it was impactful. Sydna began teaching on the Navajo Reservation, where she developed a deep respect for cultural diversity and a love for the community she served. She continued to shape young minds at Orme High School and within the Chandler and Florence Unified School Districts. Sydna's dedication to education extended beyond the classroom as she took on the role of Professional Development Director at Spalding International and later as an Instructional Coach for the Florence Unified School District. Her influence on both students and fellow educators will be felt for generations to come.
Sydna's life was also rich with personal interests and community involvement. She was deeply rooted in her church, where she found strength. Her love for reading was only matched by her enjoyment of musicals, and she could often be found engrossed in a book or humming the tunes of her favorite shows. Sydna was also an avid crafter, her hands always busy creating beauty and warmth for those around her. Her love for elephants was well-known, a symbol of her appreciation for the gentle giants' intelligence and strong family bonds. Above all, Sydna was devoted to her family.
She is survived by her loving husband, Richard Zilm, and their children: sons Richard E. Zilm, Robert Zilm, Roland Zilm, and daughters Rebecca Rennick, Melissa Rynders, Katherine Pierce. Her legacy also lives on through her cherished fourteen grandchildren, who will continue to be inspired by her life. Sydna's five sisters and two brothers remember her as a devoted sister with a heart full of love. Those who knew Sydna would describe her as loving, intelligent, and selfless. Her ability to see the best in people and to help them realize their potential was one of her most remarkable qualities. She approached life with a grace and kindness that touched everyone she met. Her absence will be deeply felt by her family, friends, colleagues, and the countless lives she touched through her work and her spirit of generosity. Sydna K Zilm's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. As we say goodbye to this extraordinary woman, we celebrate the indelible mark she has left on our hearts and the community she so dearly loved. Her memory will continue to guide and inspire us, just as the stars guide the traveler on a journey through the night. Sydna's light will never fade; it will shine on in the love she gave, the wisdom she shared, and the lives she enriched.
A viewing will be held Saturday, February 17th 2024 from 8:30am to 10am, at the LDS church building at 29419 N Desert Willow Blvd, San Tan Valley, AZ 85143. Funeral services will follow at 10:30am. Sydna will be laid to rest in San Tan Memorial Gardens.
