Sibilla Dengs

May 26, 1949 - May 29, 2018
Sibilla Dengs

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In the end, just three things matter: How well we have lived. How well we have loved. How well we have learned to let go.” – Jack Kornfield
Sibilla Dengs, 69, passed away on May 29, 2018 surrounded by her family. She lived in Williamsburg, Virginia for over 20 years.
Sibilla was born on May 26, 1949 and raised in Germany. After studying Art History at the College of William & Mary, she went on to SOAS University of London to earn a Master’s Degree in 19th Century Indian Art. When she returned to Williamsburg, Sibilla opened the award-winning artcafe26 in New Town. This innovative and unique café reflected her art background with several alternating international art exhibitions every year. She brought European cuisine and molecular gastronomy to Williamsburg through different visiting chefs from Europe. Serving her customers and giving them a wonderful dining experience brought her so much joy.
Sibilla had a big heart for others and passionately served her community and supported many charities and organizations, including Avalon and Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, to name a few. An advocate for small businesses, she encouraged collaboration and partnerships.
After closing artcafe26, Sibilla became a successful realtor with Williamsburg Realty, where she loved helping her clients find their perfect home. She was very involved with the Rotary Club of Williamsburg and most recently served as President, until she had to resign due to her sickness.
She is survived by her husband, Bernd; daughter, Susanne; son-in-law, Kim; and treasured grandson, Frederic.
A memorial celebration will be held for the family only.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice House & Support Care of Williamsburg, 4445 Powhatan Parkway, Williamsburg, VA 23188.


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  • June 01, 2018
    Jessica Hughes says:
    Sibilla helped make my 50th birthday a lasting memory. I loved the Artcafe26 and decided to reserve the space for my event. Sibilla made sure absolutely everything perfect and wonderful. In my opinion, Sibilla's style, presentation and unique and innovative cuisine have no match in the entire Williamsburg area. I will miss seeing her around town. Please know that I keep her and her family in my thoughts and prayers.

  • June 02, 2018
    Patty Roberts says:
    Sibilla was a bright light in the life of my family and closest friends. She saw me through the blessings of a young family, a tragedy, and new found joy - all surrounded by her lifes masterpiece, the artCafe. From lunch or afternoon wine with “the ladies,” to a surprise bridal shower, to an invitation to an unforgettable private dinner with her most cherished friends, she was full of life, love and compassion. Her death, on the heels of our friend, Liz’s passing, is a crushing blow. A bright light has been extinguished, and my deepest sympathies go out to her beloved family. Not a conversation went by without mention of Bernd, her daughter, and her dear grandson. The only comfort is that I know she and Liz are drinking wine together, laughing and watching over those of us they left behind. ❤️

  • June 02, 2018
    Lois McKeown says:
    My 3 friends and I would go to the Artcafe at least once a week because the food was excellent but mostly because Sibilla would be there to greet us and chat awhile. We got to know her and she got to know us. She was such a lovely, smart and giving person. And we shared in her sadness at the closing of her restaurant. We loved running into her around town and having an occasional lunch with her from time to time. Her reach in Williamsburg was so wide the entire town must be in mourning. We are so sorry for you, her family, at losing such a wonderful person way too soon and way too abruptly. Jean, Pat, Maryann and Lois

  • June 02, 2018
    Kathy Walker says:
    My husband and I are greatly saddened to hear of Sibilla's passing. What a wonderful woman. We so enjoyed artcafe26 and her exuberance for life. I always looked forward to seeing her. She will be sorely missed.

  • June 02, 2018
    Michael Richardson says:
    Michael and I are saddened to hear of Sibilla's passing. Her love of life, culture, and grace will be greatly missed. Rest in peace and know that your presence bettered this world. Sincerely, Michael and Melinda Richardson