SOUTH THOMASTON — Sylvia Adams Hocking, 86, passed from a blessed and earthly life March 12, 2014. The beloved daughter of Spiro and Jennie Adams, Sylvia was the faithful wife of Arnold for more than 60 years and a beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

She was a graduate of Westbrook Junior College. Sylvia was a faithful member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church, and treasured many enjoyable years as owner of Sylvia's Cakes and Breads.

Sylvia was born June 25, 1927, and as a youth, tended the soda fountain in her father's store where she met Arnold, a handsome Navy officer. They married in June 1953, welcomed two sons to their family and settled in South Thomaston.

In 1966, Sylvia embarked on an adventure with the establishment of Sylvia's Cake and Breads. Her palate-pleasing specialty cakes, pies and breads captivated local residents, Maine coast vacationers and many celebrities for more than 30 years. Never one to rest on former achievements, Sylvia wrote and published two cookbooks during retirement and mentored those seeking advice on home-based specialty baking businesses. Many people around the world own Sylvia's cookbooks, and she personally signed each one with the heart-felt words, "Enjoy! Sylvia." Her ready smile, love for people and desire to see others enjoy the small pleasures of life brought her much delight.

Sylvia leaves behind her husband; and two loving and devoted sons and their wives, Steve and Elise, and Bryan and Janet. Nana's ceaseless, unconditional love will remain a treasured heritage in the lives of her grandsons, Christopher (Nancey), David, Nathan and Ian; and her great-granddaughter Victoria. Her sisters-in-law, Priscilla and Erdine; her niece, Lynn; her nephew, Chris; and many extended family and friends will miss Sylvia's gentle spirit and compassionate heart. Her parents; her brother, Christy; and her sister, Betty, all preceded Sylvia in death.

The family extends their gratitude to the Quarry Hill staff for their personal and steadfast care of Sylvia during her final weeks.

"She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue," Proverbs 31:26.

Sylvia's life will be remembered Monday, March 17, at 10:30 a.m. at Burpee, Carpenter, and Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St. in Rockland.