Kenard John Sylvia

Born on April 28, 1935, in New Bedford, he was the younger son of the late Charles and Ann (Whitworth) Sylvia.

Kenard attended Fairhaven High School and later served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. Following his military service, he worked for the Goodyear Tire Company in New Bedford before transitioning to a career as a driver-salesman for various baking companies. After 26 years of dedicated service with Drake’s Cakes, he retired in 1995. During that time, he also served as a union shop steward, always advocating for his co-workers.

For 68 years, Kenard shared a devoted marriage with his loving wife, Jeanne C. (Marra) Sylvia. Above all, he was a beloved family man—the patriarch and anchor of four generations. He is survived by his three children: Glenn Sylvia of Little Compton, RI, and his partner, Laura McIntyre; Diane Robert of Assonet, MA; and Dale Sylvia and his wife, Mary, of Barrington, NH.

Kenard was the proud grandfather of Nicholas Sylvia and his wife, Audrey; Amanda Doucet and her husband, Alex; Julia Feldman and her husband, Joseph; Rebecca Weber and her husband, Noah; Gregory Robert; Robert Cheever; and Matthew Sylvia. He was the cherished great-grandfather of Loïc, Alice, Zoe, Hugo, Jackson, Ella, Oliver, and Lillian. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Kenard was predeceased by his brother, Donald Sylvia.

Kenard’s love for family life was matched by an adventurous spirit. He found joy in snowmobiling, camping, boating, travel, and the easy camaraderie of playing cards. Many will remember the summer adventures he shared with his family and the lasting memories created at lake gatherings. For more than 35 years, he organized annual family reunions, instilling a deep sense of connection across generations. He also established the tradition of TUC card tournaments during family vacations, bringing everyone together through friendly competition.

A pastime that reflected his patience and care was glass etching. He took pride in creating and sharing handcrafted gifts as a way to show his appreciation and love.

Following his retirement, Kenard and Jeanne spent 27 years enjoying life in Florida before recently returning to Massachusetts to be closer to family.

Visitation will be held at Waring-Sullivan Home at Fairlawn, 180 Washington Street, Fairhaven, MA 02719, on July 10, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Church, 74 Spring Street, Fairhaven, MA 02719, at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Saint Mary’s Cemetery in New Bedford.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to hospice; contributions may be made at Accentcare Hospice, 21 Father Devalles Blvd. Ste 105105, Fall River, MA 02723 or https://accentcare.com/ in loving memory of Kenard J. Sylvia.