Joseph Emil Silva

Joseph Emil Silva, 97, of Dartmouth, passed away peacefully at home on June 6, 2025. He was the beloved husband of the late Barbara A. Silva with whom he shared 54 years of marriage. Joseph was also the loving father of the late Ted R. Silva.

Born in Taunton, Joseph was the son of the late Antonio Silva and Julia Cordeiro Silva. He was a graduate of New Bedford High School. Joseph proudly served his country honorably as a culinary specialist in the United States Navy during World War II. Following his military service, he worked for many years at the Chamberlain Co. He was an active member of the UAW. He was then employed for many years by the New Bedford School Department as a custodian at New Bedford High School and later at the Kennedy/Donovan Center. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and warmth that will never fade. He could light up a room with nothing more than a well-timed joke or a mischievous grin. His humor was effortless. Whether it was a clever quip, a silly story, or a perfectly delivered one-liner, he had the rare gift of making people laugh even on their hardest days. Beyond laughter, there was a heart so big it seemed to hold the world. He was a steady, gentle presence, a comforting hug, and a word of wisdom wrapped in laughter and love.

Joseph had a zest for life and especially enjoyed bowling and trips to Foxwoods Casino with his late wife, Barbara. He loved to cook and was especially happy hosting his family for Christmas Eve festivities. He is survived by his loving grandchildren, Keith Silva and Lauren Weed and her husband Kevin of FL; great-grandchildren, Rylie Silva and Noah, Presley, Finn, and Skylar Weed; niece Susan Geer and her husband Ted of FL; Nephews, Gary Allen, Scott Allen and his wife Traci, and Mark Fogaren and his wife Sheila; brother-in-laws, Alfred Fogaren and George Allen, several cousins and great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving sister Lillian Brisson and her husband Roland; his niece Diane Brisson; sister in laws, Elaine Fogaren, Janice Allen and Carol Flannagan; and his niece Sharon Fogaren.

Joseph’s memory will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew him. The joy, humor, and positive impact he contributed to the world will endure through every smile, every joke, and every cherished memory. Rest peacefully. We’ll miss you forever. We’ll love you always. And we will keep laughing, just like you taught us.

In accordance with Joseph’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral services.