Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Joseph Sylvia, Jr. and the late Beatrice J. (Messier) Sylvia, he lived most of his life in the City and was a communicant of St. Joseph-St. Therese Church.
Mr. Sylvia served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He later worked for Loranger Construction in California. In his spare time, he enjoyed cars, helping people, attending AA Meetings, and feeding people the word of God.
He is survived by many caring and beloved friends. He was the brother of the late Donald Sylvia and Aline J. Koczera.
His visitation will be Tuesday, August 4, 2026 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford, MA 02745. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. in St. Gabriel the Archangel Church, 343 Tarkiln Hill Rd., New Bedford. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery. For online tribute/directions: www.rock-funeralhome.com.
