Sylvia Troy Horowitz, a pioneering attorney and cherished family member, passed away unexpectedly on May 19, 2024, at the age of 88, in Rockville, Maryland. Born on September 23, 1935, in Richmond, Virginia, Sylvia was a formidable presence in the legal field and a loving figure in her family.

Sylvia's academic journey began at Boston University and culminated with her graduating from George Washington University's School of Law in the 1950s, where she was among a handful of women in her class. Her career started at the Department of Labor (DOL), but she soon transitioned to teaching after marrying Austin Horowitz, her colleague. (At that time DOL had a rule against married couples working in the department.) The couple's professional paths led Sylvia back to the Department of Labor's Solicitor's Office once Austin joined the Department of Housing and Urban Development. In 1979, Sylvia made history as the first Counsel in the Office of the Inspector General at the DOL, a role she held with distinction until her retirement in 2003. Throughout her tenure there, she mentored numerous young attorneys, navigated significant legal challenges, and led efforts that defined the independence and jurisdiction of the Inspector General's office. Her leadership extended beyond her office as she served as the chair of the Council of Counsels to the Inspector General from 1991 to 1993. In retirement, she was a substitute teacher at the high school level in Montgomery County, MD Public Schools for several years.

Beyond her professional life, Sylvia was a global traveler and an avid enthusiast of jigsaw puzzles, activities she pursued with passion and joy. She is survived by her daughter, Susan Horowitz, and grandsons, Austin and Troy Coley. Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband, Austin Horowitz and her sister, Leah Robinson.

A Celebration of Sylvia's life will be held at 2:00pm on September 23, 2024 at her residence. For further details, please email Austin Coley at Austin51556@gmail.com. Sylvia's legacy as a trailblazer, mentor, and devoted family member will be remembered by all who knew her.