Niurka Sanchez Tyler, 68, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, in her home in Yonkers, New York, leaving behind a family who loved her deeply and a life story defined by strength, devotion, and quiet resilience.
Born on March 28, 1957, in Santiago, Dominican Republic, Niurka was the only daughter among five children, a role she carried with both grace and determination. From an early age, she showed a fierce independence and a caring heart, qualities that would guide her throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Manolo and Germania Sanchez, and two brothers, Pete and Jose, whom she loved dearly and now joins in rest.
Niurka built a life marked by hard work and perseverance. Over the years, she worked for IBM and the American Museum of Natural History, and later dedicated many years of service to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, where she eventually retired. She took great pride in her work and was respected for her integrity, reliability, and steady presence.
In 1981, Niurka married Stephen, and though their paths later separated, the greatest joy of her life was becoming a mother and glammy (don’t call her grandma). She is lovingly survived by her remaining two brothers, Eusebio and Patrick, daughter Jessica, and two of three treasured grandchildren: Avery (deceased), Ava, and Amaya, who were the light of her life. Later in life Niurka was lucky enough to have met a great man Dennis Singleton who she adored. He went above and beyond to help care for her through it all. He was an important person in her life and to the family. Nothing made her happier than time spent with them — sharing stories, laughter, and the simple comfort of being together.
Niurka had a deep love for travel and adventure. She found happiness in discovering new places, meeting new people, and embracing life’s experiences with curiosity and courage and a glass of wine. Whether near or far, she carried her warmth and kindness wherever she went.
She will be remembered for her strength, her generosity, her quiet wisdom, and the unconditional love she gave her family. Her presence was steady, her heart was big, and her memory will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.
A service will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Riverdale on Hudson Funeral Home with internment to follow at Rosedale Cemetery in Linden, NJ.
Though she is no longer with us, Niurka’s love remains — in the stories we share, the lessons she taught, and the family she cherished above all else. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.