Sylvester T. Medley Jr. was born on April 16, 1947 in Cleveland, Ohio to the union of Sylvester Medley Sr. and Mentoria Francis Medley.  He graduated from East Technical High School. He later enlisted in the military to serve his country in the United States Air Force.

Sylvester was an intelligent man of few words with a calm, gentle spirit. He never married and was affectionately known as “Syl” and “Treggie”.  He grew up in a faith based home filled with love. He was the eldest of four but the only son. He was dedicated to his mother. She was his rock and guardian angel.

Sylvester loved music and playing chess. He enjoyed listening to jazz and writing his own music. He was introduced to the flute while in high school.  He mastered playing the flute and enjoyed sharing his talent with his community. He played the flute in different areas of Cleveland, especially Public Square.

The impact his music had on the community was honored in a published photo by Ronnie Clark in The Call & Post, July 15, 1978. The photo caption was titled MUSIC IS THE CROSSROADS OF UNDERSTANDING and read:

You just can’t help but stop and lend an ear as Sylvester Medley plays his flute, and taps his feet to the beat. Sylvester can be seen and heard almost any Sunday downtown on the Mall, or for that matter any downtown park bench. He plays the kind of soul and jazz music that lifts one’s spirit, as he strolls through the area. He uses music as the bridge of understanding, and is well welcomed.

Sylvester departed life peacefully on Wednesday, August 2, 2017.  Sylvester leaves to cherish his loving memories:  sisters, Deborah Perry (Calvin) and Vicky Jones; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who loved him. Preceding him in death father and mother, Sylvester Medley Sr., and Mentoria Francis Medley; one sister, Barbara Jean Medley.

It brings great comfort to the family to know Sylvester was re-united with his beloved mother, Mentoria Medley, in heaven on the right hand of God.