With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Sylvia Jean “Polly” also known as “Ma” Minnick, who entered eternal rest on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at the age of 87.
Sylvia was a treasured mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose warmth, kindness, and vibrant spirit left an indelible mark on all who were blessed to know her.
Polly was born on September 2, 1938, in Burleson, Texas, and was raised in Olton, Texas. She later made her home in Pampa, Texas, where she spent more than 70 years building a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Pampa was not just where she lived - it was where her heart belonged.
On June 25, 1965, Polly married the love of her life, Junior Minnick, in Pampa. Their marriage was one of devotion and companionship, and Junior remained the great love of her life. Together, they built a home filled with care, humor, and unwavering support.
Throughout her life, Polly worked hard in everything she did. She was employed at a local drugstore and later at the Marie Foundation Bra Factory, but her most cherished and meaningful role was that of a devoted housewife, mother and grandmother. Caring for her daughter and family brought her the greatest pride and joy.
Polly embraced life with enthusiasm and a fearless spirit. She had a love for adventure and excitement, especially when it came to attending and watching PBR events. She also enjoyed trips to the casino, where she could happily spend hours playing slot machines, and she never missed an opportunity to visit the Raton horse races.
Equally dear to Polly’s heart was the great outdoors, where she found both joy and peace. She especially loved camping trips with her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, creating treasured memories while fishing, soaking up the sunshine, and breathing in the fresh mountain air she so deeply cherished. The mountains held a special place in her soul, offering her a sense of calm and wonder that reflected her love for life itself. Polly also had a tender affection for wildlife, finding simple happiness in feeding birds, turkeys, and other small critters. Those who knew her well will fondly remember her love for the color blue - a hue that mirrored the skies, the mountains, and the quiet beauty she so deeply appreciated in the world around her.
At home, Polly loved gathering with family to play board games, cards, and bingo, always filling the room with laughter. She was well known for her regular visits to Braum’s, where she especially enjoyed their burgers and was always treated with kindness. Polly had a sharp wit and wonderful sense of humor, often playfully teasing those she loved and delighting everyone with her quick comebacks.
Above all else, Sylvia will be remembered for her immense heart. She was a loving, accepting, and compassionate person who made everyone feel welcome and valued. Those who knew her best will fondly recall her incredible cooking—especially her famous German chocolate cake, which many would say was the very best.
Polly was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Junior Minnick; her parents, B. L. and Trudie Kenyon; her brothers, Ray, Bob, Elvy, Roland, and Richard Kenyon; and her sisters, Earline Moore, Mary Maxwell, and Jane Matthews.
She is survived by her daughter, Sherry Tackett and husband Rick of White Deer; her brother, Clyde Kenyon and wife Donna of Bridgeport, Texas; her sisters, Hazel Hooker of Wichita Falls, Texas, and Judy Hale and husband Leslie of Alvord, Texas; three grandchildren, Amanda Taylor of Meade, Kansas, Shelley Kirkwood of Callisburg, Texas, and Laura Watson and husband Clint of Pampa; and seven great-grandchildren, Ty Taylor, Jacob Kirkwood, Kaelyn Kirkwood, Kaden Brown, Karsyn Brown, Cooper Watson, and Camryn Watson. She is also survived by many cherished nieces and nephews, as well as special friends Jack and Bert Hornbaker and their children of Copeland, Kansas.
Polly will be deeply and dearly missed by all who loved her. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the High Plains Senior Care Hospice staff - especially nurses Elektra, Karen, and Stacey—for their compassion and dedication in making Polly’s final days comfortable and peaceful. Sincere thanks are also given to High Plains Senior Care for the exceptional care provided. The family would also like to warmly thank the Braum’s employees who always showed Polly such kindness during her visits.
A memorial service celebrating Polly’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the family’s home, located at 1428 South Barnes. The family has entrusted the cremation care of their loved one to Winegeart Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Pampa Senior Citizens Center, 500 W. Francis Ave, Pampa, TX 79065 in honor of Polly’s life and the values she held dear. Polly’s legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
