Rita T. Silva

Born in New Bedford, a daughter of the late, Reza and Zelpha (Noel) Bellefeuille, she was a lifelong area resident.

A devout Catholic, she was a daily communicant of St. Mary’s Church / St. Gabriel the Archangel Church, New Bedford. Mrs. Silva was a homemaker. In her spare time, she enjoyed bowling and belonged to the Senior Bowling League. She also enjoyed games like BINGO and charades. She enjoyed spending time with her family, knitting, and crocheting. Every year, she made homemade Christmas ornaments for each family member.

She is survived by her children, Michael Silva (Cheryl) of Lakeville, Steven Silva (Cindy Blaire) of Lakeville, Dr. Jeffrey Silva (Corinne) of New Bedford, Christine Bergevin (James) of New Bedford, David Silva (Sandra) of New Bedford, nine grandchildren, Joshua, Lisa Medeiros (Derek), Kevin, Eric (Nicole), Elizabeth Emerzian (Peter), Aden, Connor, Adam Bergevin (Michaela), Jenna Bergevin (Mathew Jennings); six great grandchildren, Samuel, Kiaya, Travis, Peter, Grant, and Bennett; and many nieces and nephews.

She was the sister of the late Martha Thomasset, Gertrude Robidoux, Eddie, Armond, George, John, Gaston, and Charles Bellefeuille, Beatrice Gelinas, Mary Jane Langevin, Simone Dumas, and Jacqueline McCormick. She was also predeceased by her daughter-in-law Cynthia Silva.

Her visitation will be Monday, April 6, 2026 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford followed by her Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Gabriel the Archangel Catholic Church, 343 Tarkiln Hill Rd., New Bedford. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery. For online tribute/directions: www.rock-funeralhome.com.