August Pina Silva Sr.

August P. Silva, Sr., affectionately known as Augie, passed away on November 3, 2026, at the age of 94. Born on March 26, 1932, in Middleborough, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Jerome Pina Silva, originally from São Filipe, Fogo, Cabo Verde Islands, and the late Marguerite Caroline (Johnson) Silva, originally from Meriden, Connecticut. He was born and raised in Middleborough, where he grew up on his family's farm. Those early years, surrounded by family and the rhythms of farm life, helped shape his strong work ethic, sense of responsibility, and lifelong connection to his community. August graduated from Memorial High School in Middleborough, where he received the Silver “M” Society Award for Excellence in Citizenship and the American Legion Excellence in Art Award. In the 1960s, he moved to Hanson, Massachusetts, where he continued a life devoted to family, public service, education, and civic involvement.

August believed deeply in serving his country. He began active duty in the United States Army in 1953 and served for two years in Italy before returning home. He continued his military career in the United States Army Reserve, where he rose to lieutenant colonel. After thirty years of service, he retired from the 76th Medical Division. After retiring from federal service, he continued serving his state in the Massachusetts Military Reserve, also known as the State Guard, where he attained the rank of Brigadier General.

His commitment to veterans and fellow servicemen and women extended beyond his military career. August was an active and dedicated member of the Middleboro Post of the American Legion. In a separate leadership role within the organization, he served as District 10 Commander and held several other positions. His involvement reflected his enduring dedication to veterans, public service, and the American Legion's principles.

August's education and artistic interests continued throughout his life. He attended the Swain School of Design in New Bedford and earned a certificate in commercial art. He later attended Southeastern Massachusetts Technical Institute (SMTI), now the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, earning a degree in Fine Arts with a major in painting. He also pursued further studies at Bridgewater State College and completed a certificate program through the Massachusetts College of Art.

August began his teaching career in 1967 with the Hanson Public Schools, where he taught art at Indian Head School for over twenty years. He took great pride in sharing his artistic knowledge, encouraging creativity, and helping students discover and develop their own abilities. He remembered his students fondly and valued the opportunity to make a lasting difference in their lives through education and art.

His commitment to public service continued throughout his years in Hanson. He served as a Constable for more than fifty years. He also contributed to the town as a Selectman, member of the Planning Board, and Auxiliary Police Officer. He took an active interest in local government and community affairs, believing that a strong community depended on the involvement and dedication of its residents. After retiring from teaching, he continued serving others by leading the Hanson Camp Fire Boys & Girls chapter's CARE program, which supported veterans, families experiencing homelessness, and children in need. He also volunteered with the Hanson Senior Center, delivering Meals on Wheels. He also served as president of a South Shore chapter of the Retired Educators Association of Massachusetts. These were just a few of the many activities, organizations, and community efforts to which August devoted his time and energy throughout the years. Even after retirement, he continued to give generously of his experience, leadership, and dedication to the community he called home.

August maintained a lifelong appreciation for the people and family who shaped his childhood. His siblings who predeceased him are the late Andrezia Rita Howell of Meriden, Connecticut; Alfred Jerome (Jeannette) of Stoughton, Massachusetts; Joseph Pina (Teiko) of Browns Mills, New Jersey; Anthony Pina of Middleborough, Massachusetts; Rose Pina (Innocence J. Silva) of Carver, Massachusetts; Jeannette Pina (Albert Dias) of Carver, Massachusetts; and Jerry P., whose surviving wife, Priscilla, resides in Raynham, Massachusetts. He is survived by his brother, John P. (Janice), of Dade City, Florida.

He shared nearly 54 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Maria Julia (De Andrade) Silva. He is also survived by his daughter, Kathryn Maria Silva of Hanson; his son, August Pina Silva, Jr., of East Bridgewater, and his son's significant other, Christina (Tina) Denly; and his grandson, Jaimitio Horta of East Bridgewater. He also leaves his many godchildren, including his especially close and beloved godchild, Gina Silva, of Zephyrhills, Florida. His many nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends were also an important part of his extended family.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a visitation in the Sullivan Funeral Home 2 Maquan St.(Cor Rte 14&58) Hanson, MA on Sun. Nov. 15, 2026 from 2 to 5 pm. A Funeral Service will be held in the funeral home on Mon. Nov 16, 2026 at 11 am followed by burial services in the MA National Cemetery, Bourne