Denise L. Sylvester, 67, of Brockton and South Dennis Massachusetts died unexpectedly on Saturday, May 7, 2022. Born on May 21,1954, she was the daughter of the late Nicolas and Louise Sylvester. She was the longtime running partner of the late James J. Slattery. She graduated from Brockton High School, Boston State College and Harvard Graduate School of Education. Denise was a gifted linguist; fostered by her beloved grandmother. She grew to love language and became a French and Spanish teacher. She taught in the Nauset, Brookline, Plymouth, Hingham, and Brockton school systems. She retired in 2012 from her career in the Easton Public School system. She also worked in fine restaurants for many years, including Anthony's Pier Four. An avid runner, Denise ran multiple marathons. She was a longtime Boston Marathon Volunteer and thoroughly enjoyed congratulating runners at the finish line with a medal. She loved to exercise at the gym, she was an adventurer and global traveler. Denise loved learning, meeting people, experiencing new things, seeing new places, tasting new food, lively conversation, and the beach on a sunny day. In addition to her dear Aunt Natalie Vitagliano, she is survived by her cousins Donna Vitagliano of Attleboro, Diane (Steve) Conlon of Weymouth, David (Debra) Vitagliano of Braintree, Marie Cirelli of New Jersey and Bobbie Pipia of Brockton and many friends nearby and around the world. Funeral from the Russell & Pica Funeral Home, 165 Belmont St.,(Rt.123) Brockton on Thursday, May 19th at 9:00AM thence to St. Michael's Parish, 87 N. Main St., Avon where a funeral Mass will be celebrated for the repose of her soul at 10:30AM. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Brockton. Calling hours Wednesday from 3;00 to 7:00PM.