Raymond Walter Silva

He was born on November 14, 1929 to the late Ella Sylvia Silva, and Antone Santos Silva.

Raymond worked for many years at Werman Shoe Factory, and also several years at the American Legion Post #4 in Norwich.

Raymond served four years in the US Air Force. He was awarded the Korean Service Medal, the Bronze Star, UN Service Medal and the Defense Service Medal. He played basketball for the Air Force team and played for local teams at home. Raymond was a die-hard Duke fan as well as a Cleveland Brown fan.

Raymond was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post #4 in Norwich. He was Sergeant of Arms for several years. He was also a member of the Legions Color Guard and played snare drums. The guard won several trophies and awards during their existence. They were awarded as the best American Legion Color Guard in the Plainfield V-J Day Parade. It was the group’s third straight V-J title.

Raymond was the director of the Fletcher Raiders Drum and Bugle Corp from 1965 until they disbanded in 1976. In 1968 the Raider’s won the Yankee Circuit Championship going undefeated. Raymond was a mentor to several young men and women throughout his lifetime.

Raymond is survived by one sister Anna Parrish of Norwich, and several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brother Manuel Silva Sr. and sisters Florence M. Silva and Arlene Randall (Vernon).

Family and friends may visit Church and Allen Funeral Home, 136 Sachem Street, Norwich, on Friday, June 13th from 10:00 AM until the time of the funeral home service at 12:00 PM. Please visit www.churchandallen.com to leave an online condolence for Raymond’s family.