MSgt Rafael "Ray" Silva Jr.

He was born on the 25th of September 1977, in Brooklyn, NY, and grew up in Orlando.

By trade, MSgt Silva worked as a Logistics Supply Craftsman for the United States Air Force for 18 Years. A brilliant man, he chose to turn down an academic scholarship to join the Air Force and serve his country.

He was passionate about many things, committed to mentoring young people in the military & in the community; sending out a weekly email of inspiration to all who would hear; volunteering for four years with the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, organizing hundreds of volunteers in events he would also sometimes lead.

Ray cooked up a storm with famous secret chili and chicken wing recipes. He built poker tables, and cheered on his Orlando Magic, his Philadelphia Eagles and of course, his New York Yankees, a baseball player himself.

Of course, Ray’s family was his heart. He met his beloved Ana in the service, working in the same job. He could not help but collect thoughtful tiny gifts for his beloved daughters, Noemi & Eliana. And, he always said he could never be who he was without his Parents here in Orlando, Carmen and Dennis Ramos.

He was preceded in death by his late Birth Parents, Evelyn Ramos and Rafael Silva Sr., his uncles and his recently departed grandfather, George Labrador.

MSgt Silva is survived by his loving Wife, Ana Maria Silva; beloved Daughters, Noemi Evelyn & Eliana Rae; Mother, Carmen Ramos & Father, Dennis Ramos; Brothers, David Guzman and Dennis Ramos Jr.; Sister, Alyse Ramos and beloved Brother and Sisters-in law, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces and Nephews, as well as Grandparents.

The Silva Family invites you to a Funeral Mass on Saturday, the 20th of January 2018 at 1000 hours in the morning at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 12600 Marsfield Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32837, followed by Full Military Honors to be rendered.

Immediately afterward, a Visitation will be held nearby from 11:30-2:30 at Family Funeral Care, 13001 S John Young Parkway, Orlando, Florida 32837.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to please consider making a donation to The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center in MSgt Silva’s name. You may send monetary or in-kind donations by going www.ECCAC.org.”

Condolences may be offered at www.familyfuneralcareorlando.com”