NORFOLK—Sylvia Tew Nicholas, 73, died Dec. 24, 2007, in Portsmouth.

Raised in Portsmouth, she was the widow of Robert Lee Nicholas.

Mrs. Nicholas worked for United Airlines and later retired as a travel agent.

She was a member of Lafayette Presbyterian Church and the Khedive Lady Hillbillies. Shea was the matriarch of the Tew family.

Survivors include one son, Robert Lee Nicholas Jr. and wife Theresa of Ivor; two grandchildren, Jeff and Tyler Nicholas; and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral was held Thursday in Sturtevant Funeral Home, Portsmouth Blvd. Chapel, by Pastor Stuart McCarter.

Burial was in Olive Branch Cemetery. The family will receive friends at 15023 Appleton Road, Ivor.