Sydney de Jong, a beloved ceramic artist and active member of her community, passed away at the age of 95 on February 21, 2026. Born on May 24, 1930, in Pasadena, California, to Harold Munger Alling and Edna Rose Harris, Sydney lived a vibrant life marked by creativity and adventure.
Sydney attended The Westridge School before enrolling at Stanford University. It was there that she met her future husband, returning U.S. Army WWII veteran, Hamilton C. de Jong. The couple married in 1950 at City Hall and settled in Pasadena, where they raised their five children: Antoinette Portis, Edward, Colman, Celia, and William de Jong. Their marriage lasted until Hamilton’s passing in 2007.
Sydney was known for her active lifestyle, enjoying a range of sports including swimming, skiing, and scuba diving. Her passion for physical activity continued into her later years, where she could often be seen walking her dog twice a day, regardless of the weather.
A Passion for Ceramics
In 1960, Sydney discovered her love for ceramics while attending a pottery class at Pasadena City College. This experience marked the beginning of her successful career as a ceramic artist. She constructed her first kiln in her backyard and began creating pottery using a kick wheel in her basement. As her skills developed, so did her studio, which expanded to accommodate her growing body of work.
Sydney’s dedication to her craft was evident in her commitment to learning new techniques and experimenting with styles. Throughout her life, she produced countless beautiful pieces, always striving to create objects that others could enjoy and use. Her creativity extended beyond ceramics; she was also a talented craftsperson, known for sewing quilts and clothing, as well as crocheting and knitting.
A Lasting Legacy
Sydney de Jong is survived by her five children and is remembered fondly by her nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Her warmth and creativity endeared her to many within her community, where she was cherished by neighbors and friends alike.
A memorial service will take place at 13:00 on February 21, 2026, at the Sunrise Chapel located in Mountain View Cemetery, 2400 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena. Those wishing to honor her memory are encouraged to consider contributions in the form of flowers or by planting a living memorial in her name.
Sydney de Jong’s legacy will continue to resonate through her family, her art, and the countless lives she touched throughout her long and fulfilling life.
