Thelma Colette D'Silva

Thelma Colette D’Silva, whose journey of love, growth, and nurturing spanned continents and careers, passed away surrounded by her family, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience. Born to Gerald Ernest O’Connor and Sheila O’Connor (Jansen) on February 7, 1951, in Madurai, India, Thelma was the embodiment of warmth, strength, and dedication, the third of eight siblings who grew up in the rich tapestry of Anglo Indian culture (Irish & Anglo Indian parents).

In the initial chapters of her professional life, Thelma first shone brightly as a fashion model, where her natural elegance and grace were showcased to the world. This experience laid the foundation for her diverse career path, which saw her embracing teaching next, touching many of her students lives with her wisdom and kindness. Her story took a heartfelt turn upon moving to America, where she not only embraced a new life but transformed it into a saga of love and continuous learning. In the U.S., she ventured into cosmetology, a testament to her ever-evolving spirit and passion for nurturing beauty in all forms. Thelma’s life was rich with roles she cherished deeply—as she would later become a dedicated professional in the airline industry, further fueling her love of travel with family.

Thelma was a mother who raised her children, Amanda and Ryan, with love and resilience, instilling in them the values of compassion and the importance of wisdom, love, family and God. Her unwavering belief in Jesus Christ became even more apparent as she fought for her life through an extended hospitalization due to numerous complications following surgery.

One of the most beautiful chapters of her life began when she met Brian Patrick D’Silva. Their love story, marked by shared dreams and mutual respect, began in the vibrant corridors of India and was solemnized in marriage on December 15, 1979, at Saint Mary’s Church in Secunderabad. This union brought forth not just the joys of companionship but also a shared journey of love, challenges, and triumphs.

In America, alongside Brian, Thelma continued to weave a family filled with support, understanding, and unwavering love. Together, they navigated the challenges of life in a new country, their bond strengthening with every obstacle overcome and every joy shared. As a grandmother to James Connor Hrit, Thelma found a new avenue for her boundless love, her legacy of kindness and nurturing continuing to bloom.

Thelma’s relationships extended beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of her siblings Ralph O’connor, Phillip O’connor, Tony O’connor, Andrew O’Connor, Rita O’Connor, Tina Smith, and Patricia Emmanuel. Thelma held a special place in the hearts of her brothers-in-law, Ralph D’Silva (deceased), Daryl Smith, Archie Lauzerus (deceased), Raja Emmanuel, and Freddy Machaya (deceased). She was a light joy and laughter to her sisters-in-law, Maria O’connor, Youlanda O’connor, and Kavita O’Connor; Shirley Machaya (deceased); Hazel Lauzerus; Jean D’Silva, Merlin D’Silva, and Hyacinth D’Silva. Each bond was unique, but the love was universal, reflecting Thelma’s ability to touch hearts in a way only she could.

Thelma’s role as an aunt was imbued with love, laughter, generosity and lessons. She nurtured her nieces and nephews with the same tenderness and care she showed her siblings, leaving a legacy of love that will be passed down through generations.

In addition to her familial roles, Thelma was a valued friend and confidante to many, including her children’s friends, whom she embraced like her own. Her generosity knew no bounds, often extending her support to charitable causes and those in need, leaving a lasting impact on her community and beyond.

Her home was a welcoming haven for friends, her table always ready to serve, a true reflection of her generous spirit in life. She delighted in hosting gatherings and threw parties with open-hearted joy. Always eager to lend a helping hand, her arms were ever open, offering comfort and a warm embrace.

Thelma Colette D’Silva will be remembered for more than the roles she expertly navigated - as a, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, professional, and friend. Her story is one of profound love, of a life lived with purpose and generosity, and of a spirit that inspired those around her to pursue their dreams with courage and love. She leaves behind a family that adored her, friends who cherished her, and a world that was made brighter by her presence.

Thelma was the beloved wife of Brian Patrick D'Silva. Loving mother of Amanda Marie D'Silva and Ryan Gerald D'Silva. Adored grandmother of James Connor Hrit. Dear sister of Ralph O'Connor, Reeta O'Connor, Martina Smith, Patricia Emanuel, Philp O'Connor, Anthony O'Connor, and Andrew O'Connor. Special aunt of Neil Machay and many loving nieces and nephews.

Visitation for Thelma will be held on Friday, April 5th from 3-9pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road, Warren, MI. Her Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, April 6th at 3pm at the Funeral Home.

Please share memories of Thelma at her guest book below.