We’re saddened to share that Sydell Miller, co-founder of Matrix, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2024.
Born in 1937 in Cleveland, Ohio, Sydell will be remembered as a trailblazer in the beauty industry.
After marrying salon owner and hairstylist Arnie Miller in 1958, the couple went on to create Ardell, the world’s first ready-to-apply and invisible-banded eyelash brand.
In 1980, the couple co-founded Matrix Essentials Inc., a line with hair colour and care products that expanded into styling with Vavoom, and System Biolage. With its headquarters based in Solon, Ohio, the Millers were proud to have built and grown their business from their home state.
Following Arnie’s passing in 1992, Sydell took the reins of the company as Matrix’s president and CEO. She retired as chairman of the board in 1996, and Matrix was acquired by L’Oréal in 2000.
Sydell went on to be the chairman of the board of Aquage, a professional haircare brand that was co-founded by her brother, Dennis Lubin.
After her retirement, Sydell focused her efforts on her family and philanthropy. She was a strong advocate for causes ranging from healthcare to women’s mentorship, Jewish endeavours, and support for the arts.
In 2005, Sydell and her children donated funds to establish the Cleveland Clinic’s Sydell & Arnold Miller Family Pavilion, which is home to the Sydell & Arnold Miller Heart and Vascular Institute. Sydell served as a member of the Cleveland Clinic’s Board of Trustees, as well as its Florida Leadership Council.
She also served on the boards of the American Cancer Society of Palm Beach, BBSI, the Cleveland Clinic, Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, Norton Museum of Art, Palm Beach Civic Association, and Palm Beach County United Way.
Among Sydell’s numerous awards and accolades, she was the first non-hairdresser elected to the National Cosmetology Association’s Hall of Fame, named one of the Top 50 Women Business Owners in America by Working Women Magazine, and received the Beauty Changes Lives Foundation Legacy Award.
She will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues.
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