Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
James Silva Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Silva
Sponsored by Master Silva's students.
Lynne Velasco
April 12, 2023
You are never forgotten Andy! Please continue to guide us especially your sons who you love so much. I relayed all your messages you wanted me to tell them when they got older. And i will tell them again. We miss you and rodel always have you in his mind.
Bob Terrell
April 8, 2023
Master Silva you are still very missed and remain part of my everyday life. Your brother, friend, student and Captain.
Bob Terrell
William (Bob) Terrell
April 8, 2021
Master Silva, a day doesn't go by that I don't think of the values and training I received from you...will miss you until we meet again...
Lhyn and rodel
May 2, 2019
Andy,
We all miss you so much. You and tatang are our angels and the wind beneath our wings! Guide us always to good health, our safety and whatever rocky road we experience, especially to Debbie and most especially your twin boys, Aaron and Auston as they are getting older. All the great memories and great things you left us with will never be forgotten.
Charles Ospitia
April 9, 2019
Sir..still think about you and miss you. Find myself repeating things to others, especially my boys, that you taught me over those years with you. You will never be forgotten.
Beth Munoz
April 8, 2019
I still think of you often.
Capt. Bob, Third Degree Instructor
Bob Terrell
May 7, 2017
Master Silva, a day still does not go by without a thought of you. However, I now smile at the remembrance of our times and training together for those 17 years
Luis Fernando Fernandez
January 28, 2017
You are never forgotten, still talk to you. And listen to your wisdom.I love you sir.miss you. Can't wait to train with you again in heaven .
My "other" 9th Degree Dobohk...
Captain Bob Terrell
January 27, 2017
Master Silva, you are still in my everyday thoughts.The values instilled from your training will be last forever...Still miss and love you Sir.
Cary Fraga
January 26, 2017
Master Silva, God bless you and keep you in His arms. You were taken away too soon, my boys are 31 and 28 years old and I keep dearly in my memory the years they were students at your school as little boys, those were some of the best times in our lives.
A Jurado
July 11, 2016
Thanks for the positive role you played in my life. I still remember all you taught me.
BUDDY & DORIS MIXON
February 18, 2016
STILL MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU.
UNCLE BUDDY & AUNT DORIS.
Miami Precision Motorcyle Drill Team 2014
Bob Terrell
May 23, 2015
Master Silva, you are still very much missed. A day doesn't go by without a remembrance of our years together. Debbie and the boys, I am still around and healthy if you ever need anything...Love and miss Sir! and the "Family"...
Diana Cohen
December 15, 2014
You are very much missed Master Silva. Please take care of those who you inspired and are still on the path you forged for them. Mostly my husband, who to this day, speaks of you with the utmost admiration and respect. We have never met a better human being. God bless.
Precision motorcycle riding and safety Instructor
Captain Bob Terrell
July 19, 2014
Master Silva, you are still terribly missed. My brother, Instructor, and best friend. My life has changed somewhat, but still strongly influenced by your leadership. I am sitting in Newport Rhode Island on the Yacht that I Captain thinking about you, Debbie and the twins. just know you are dearly loved and missed...
June 30, 2014
Master Silva, I love you , and I will always love you. You are the best. I know you are always here. never give up!
Bob Terrell
April 29, 2013
Yes Sir! Master Silva, you absolutely are still missed. A day does not go by that I, Mr. T, does not have a thought and reflect on the 17 years you trained me, became my "Brother" and closest friend. An Instructors Instructor...As I stated last year, I will miss you until we meet again...
April 27, 2013
Master Silva,
I have been thinking about you lately. Your birthday is coming up and I want to wish you a happy birthday. I am sure both you and my father are both smiling from above next to each other and I really hope I have made you both proud. I will continue to instill those disciplines you taught me to as many people as possible.
Thank you and I miss you.
Charles Walker
June 29, 2012
I can't believe it has been 6 years now since we losr Master Silva. I still miss him but I try to carry on his yes i can spirit not only in TKD but in life as well. I am now a college stident at University of Florida and Miami Dade College and I am sure Master Silva would be very proud of all of us.
Bob Terrell
June 27, 2012
Master Silva, I still miss you Sir! and will do so, until we meet agan...
January 29, 2012
I trained with Andy back when he was just stag out in at the Miami Lakes Athletic club. I have moved many times since then but I have never stopped thinking about those days and the lessons that I learned from this great man. My kids are now invloved in TKD because of my wonderful experiences. He will live on forever in my heart.
Dan W.
Jon Cobb
April 24, 2011
I'm sad to learn of Andy's death. He and I trained together in Panama City back in the 1980s. When I was an undergraduate student, he was kind enough to let me stay at his house when I interviewed for medical school at the University of Miami. Unfortunately, we lost touch since that time. I'll miss him very much.
Sincerely,
Jon Cobb, MD
Luis Ayala Rosa Perez
April 13, 2011
Master Silva was an great man, father, husband, son, and teacher. He is greatly missed by everyone.
Aaron and Auston achieving their 2nd Degree Black Belt and receiving medals for tournament competition.
Debbie Silva
April 13, 2011
I often read the messages over and over again. It has been 5 years now and I am able to write. Although, I knew first hand the wonderful man I married, Andy Silva, it is inspiring to know how many lives he has touched in this world! Through all of his students, Instructors, family, friends and his boys Aaron and Auston, his legacy lives on.
Aaron and Auston are now 9 years old and their memories of their Dear Dad are still alive. Aaron inherited his Dad's serious and very organize character and Auston has his wittyness and body structure. All the wonderful traits that keep me going.....
This past weekend, they achieved their 2nd Degree Black Belt. Daddy would be so proud of them. We sent balloons up in the sky with messages. Aaron and Auston were so proud to tell him about their 2nd Degree Black Belt. It was a sad but great day today.
He is our Angel...
Thank you everyone for sharing your thoughts, feelings and memories of our Beloved, Andy Silva.
Meliqua Gerardo-Ferrer
April 12, 2011
Can't believe 5yrs have passed since you been gone. We miss you so very much. I wish my little girls had the opportunity to meet such a inspirational person as yourself. They see pictures of you and ask who u are. Eddie always tell them how much a loving and motivational person you were. Auntie Debbie and twins are so lucky to have had a wonderful husband and father and now a special guardian angel. We all wish you were still here but understand that God called you home. We love you so very much!!! <3
April 12, 2011
We all miss and love you dearly.. We pray for you and in god we trust in him. You are our angel from heaven and always asking for your guidance especially to your wife Debbie and your twin boys Aaron and Auston who will never ever forget you. Rodel, Lynne, Frances and From all who hve you have inspired thru out.
Bob Terrell
April 11, 2011
Master Silva, tomorrow the 5th year in your passing will be here, and a day does not go by without a thought of you...Sure do miss you Sir!
Charles Walker
April 8, 2011
I miss Master Silva for he was my insperation for and in taekwondo since I was 5. I shall miss him and will always believe in his yes I can spirit.
January 26, 2011
We were very sorry to hear of the loss of Master Silva, both our sons were students when little boys at his school located at Palm Springs North. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The Fraga family.
Rick Whitehead
October 5, 2010
Master Silva,
We had some great times together at past Instructor Camps, learning from Eternal Grandmaster and the other Seniors. You always had a huge heart and was very generous with your time. YOu are missed.
Jay Brinkmeyer
October 5, 2010
I sure to miss you Master Silva! You were a kind and generous man who always greeted me with a smile. RIP.
Michael Hardegree
July 13, 2010
Hey sir,
I was thinking about you today and I realized your passing has affected me, alot of different things were run through my mind. I dont think I ever really got to thank you for the great start you gave me in my life. I wanted to tell you that i finally acheived my goal of becoming a head instructor. I know that is something you would be very proud to hear. I never stop pushing and never stop trying i just have to remember how much you went through and still gave your 150% for that i love you. You were always and forever will be my idol and my hero in life. Thank you so much for all your patience and love for me and my family.
April 30, 2010
Happy 50th Birthday Andy!! You were such a very genuine and unique person who was always there for others. Who taught soooo many wonderful things words can't describe. You have touched sooo many people's lives until to this day. Yes, "we will always remember you" til eternity as the word you used to Debbie, Aaron and Auston that you love them until eternity. Rodel, Lynne & Frances
Bob Terrell
April 19, 2010
I Miss you Sir...
John Ramirez
April 14, 2010
I think I'll look for old Taekwondo videos to watch, when I go back to Miami this weekend. Miss you, Mr. Silva.
April 14, 2010
April 12th is when you departed. We will always remember you...I remember in October 2005 when you took all of us to Swan Hotel to eat dinner and you started singing "Will you remember me". You also made Frances sing "you take my breath away" in the karaoke in Swan Hotel. Andy, you will always be the wind "Beneath our Wings"...As what Rodel, Frances and myself promised to you when we all used to talk all night long and laughed together we will not forget.You know that our family ties and closeness are very strong and with your guidance for your wife, your sons Aaron & Auston and the rest of the family, everything will be great always. We all love you and miss you all the time. Rodel, Lynne and Frances
Bob Terrell
April 13, 2010
Today Master Silva, four years ago, you departed here to meet the Master of ALL...I miss you as much today as then...
Bob Terrell
April 13, 2010
As your Birthday approaches Sir, I am lighting a candle and will do so every year, until we meet in again...
Henry Roque
March 18, 2010
I will never forget you
Andrew Meyer
March 13, 2010
I was one of Master Silva's students in Miami Lakes back in '91-'92. I remember he had us in a circle and sparred with each person in the class for a minute or two, one after the other. I was a young and fairly new student and was last in the circle. I remember feeling so nervous as my turn came around, but by the time he got to me he said he was exhausted, raised my hand in the air, and declared me the winner. I won't forget that.
Jose Fernandez
January 10, 2010
Master Silva will always be my first MASTER. I remember in elementary school when he would come with his Black Belts and do demonstrations on career day. In Miami Lakes back then Taekwondo = Master Silva. I will continue my martial arts training until the day I leave this earth. And when I do Ill have a Master waiting for me to train with.
Maria Sardinas
December 29, 2009
While on an escalator in Texas I noticed the man in front of me was wearing a familiar blue, red and white with the leters "ATA" on the back. When he turned I mentioned to him my son had been with "ATA" for years. When he asked me what school he had been with I proudly said, "Andy Silva's ATA Black Belt Academy in Miami Lakes, FL. and it was there in this Texas airport that I was told of Master Silvas passing.I called home and told my son the sad news. My son is now 16 years old and I thank God every day for the woderful young man he has grown into, much of which is due to the wonderful teaching he received starting at the age of four when he was a "Tiny Tiger" with Master Silva. "Yes Sir", is said in our house daily, and I always think of Andy when I hear it. From road trips to tournaments across Florida where he and Master Lee taught Michael to swim,parties at the school and even a self-defense class or two, his memory will forever be with us. As I look at the pictures of his sons I am happy to see that they are following in his footsteps.
Maria, Jorge and Michael Sardinas
Rosemary
October 19, 2009
i have fond memories of Master Silva in the late 1980s. I was a student who was diagnosed with MS shortly after coordination problems showed up in Tae Kwon Do class. I remember his encouragement to continue on, despite a physical disability. I am greatly saddened to hear he has left us.
Bob Terrell
May 1, 2009
Happy Birthday Master Silva! A day does not go by without a thought of you...
April 30, 2009
Happy 50th Birthday to our Beloved Master Andy Silva and brother in law.
Love and Miss you very much,
Rodel and Lynne
Jose Juarbe
April 30, 2009
Happy Birthday Master Silva! I will always remember.
Lynne/Rodel/Frances Velasco
April 13, 2009
Although it has been 3 years, it seems like it was just yesterday. All these 3 years we pray and think of you everyday. Every corner or places we go to there's always a memory of you...Debbie, Aaron and Auston are in Apalachiocola to visit your grave site... Please guide them a safe trip back home.
Anaida Davila
April 13, 2009
Hey Sir. Its been 3 years now and the first time that I've been able to really come and say something. Lots of things have happened since we last spoke … I graduated, moved to Jacksonville, came back, and am now working again with the Taekwondo family that I grew up with.
Just last Tuesday on the 7th I had a dream that I was called into the office by Debbie and when I walked in to my surprise you were sitting down waiting for me to enter. You asked me the usual; how school was going and how things were with my family but then you congratulated me on testing for my fourth degree and said how proud you were. I asked how you found out about me testing and your response was “I was right there with you the whole time”. Lately I’ve been doubting myself a lot on everything and it was as if you knew it all … and you told me that even though at times people may not want me to succeed, the people who do want me to rise will never let me fall and if all else fails there were plenty of people up above who take great care of me and who are always watching me, so just keep doing what I’m doing and everything will fall into place when it needs to. I said thank you and woke up suddenly.
So for the first time I want to say myself “Thank You Sir”. More than ever I find myself thinking about the great instructor I once had and how I wish to have had more time with such a person. I thank both you and Debbie everyday for everything you’ve done for me and for never allowing me let go of my dreams. Everyone misses you here, thank you for not only being a great instructor, person, and friend but for opening your arms and making me feel like family. And to Debbie who is always there for me whenever I need it, no matter what and for taking care of me the way she would for her own. Love you sir. God bless.
Rob Creed
April 12, 2009
Thought about you in church last night. Can't believe 3 years have gone by. Three years of loss, but a life time of thank you's. We miss you Sir.
PierAngeli Figueroa
March 31, 2009
I knew Andy about 15 years ago or more and I just found out. I really can't believe it. May God bless his wife and boys.
Renee Battenberg
January 18, 2009
Debbie, Aaron & Auston: We will always remember the great memories we all had together. We think of you often.
May God Be With You Always,
The Battenberg Family
Kris Cousins
January 8, 2009
Almost 3 years have gone by and there isn't one day where you do not go through my thoughts Master Silva. I just would like to thank you for all of your training and knowledge. It has made me a better person. No matter what path i choose, your teachings will always be the solid foundation in which to build upon a better outcome in my life. Thank You.
Captain Bob Terrell
December 30, 2008
Till this day I miss you more than any person in my entire life. Yes, this includes family. You were the best friend, instructor, advisor a person could have. This Legacy attest to that. You were loved and respected by all and felt the same for your students and families. A day does not go by without a thought of you, even as I bounce around the oceans. Debbie and the boys, I hope all is going well. You know how to contact me if you need anything.
Boom SahboNim Kahm Sae Hahm Ni Dah
December 29, 2008
Andy, we miss you very much..there is not a day we do not think about you...You left us with great, wonderful, very happy memories that will NEVER be forgotten and irriplaceable. A brother in law, my boss, a great mentor and role model...Your boys, Aaron and Auston are so much like you and will be like you as they get older....Your wife Debbie, takes very good care of Aaron and Auston. Rodel, Frances and I will always be there for them. Guide and watch over us always in all the toll we turn especially to Debbie, Aaron and Auston. We Love and Miss You Very Much. Lynne
John Ramirez
December 25, 2008
Master Silva,
It's been over 2 years, since your passing, and I've just heard about it. It was a privilege to be one of your students and a witness to what you were trying to instill in all of us. You definately earned your wings. You were a great man. I will never forget you and what you stood for. God bless your family.
Lanz Amann
December 12, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss.
December 9, 2008
Hello Sir, I was thinking about your impact on me today and understand you even more and admire you now that I'm a parent. We all are trying to live up to your example of how to be a great instructor, leader, and father. We miss you very much because no matter how much we try to continue on, on the Monday meetings, we all miss your presence. Thank you for inspiring all of us in such a great way.
Robert
Eliane Wang
October 25, 2008
I was just talking about you today and I asked myself, where has Mr. Silva been? It has been over 10 years since I saw or spoke to him last. Searched the website for his school and noticed the name of Master had changed. Then searched even further and found him gone. Mr. Silva your legacy will live forever and may God be with you in heaven.
Richard Roth
October 11, 2008
What can I say that hasn't already been said. A class chap in every sense of the word. The room would always light up when you would enter. We all felt special being in your presence and the resepect we as your students, had for you was immense.
A legend through and through.
P.S. On a lighter note, when I was a kid, I always thought you looked like a superhero.
Arpak Mafie
September 17, 2008
Master Silva,
I don't know where to start. The way you inspired me to achieve goals in my life. When you would take time out of your day to help me if when no one else did. I miss you so much sir! So much has changed since you have left us. I know we will see each other again one day, and catch up on allot of things. Best wish's for your family and your love ones sir!
LUIS FERNANDO FERNANDEZ
July 14, 2008
MASTER SILVA SHOWED ME HOW TO APPLY MARTIAL ARTS TO EVERY ASPECT OF MY LIFE, I WAIT TO MEET HIM AGAIN .
LUIS AYALA
June 30, 2008
DEAR DEBBIE AND FAMILY,
MAY GOD ALWAYS BLESS YOU AND YOUR BOYS.ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT MASTER SILVA IS LOOKING DOWN AT YOU AND THE BOYS.I AM SO SURE THAT HE IS VERY PROUD OF HOW WONDERFUL OF A JOB THAT YOU ARE DOING RAISING YOUR BOYS.MAY GOD BLESS YOU,THE BOYS AND THE FAMILY.
Genie Nichols
June 11, 2008
I am very sorry about Andy's passing. May God grant him rest where the light of His countenance shines. I send my warmest condolences to his wife, children and the Silva family. I am so proud of all of Andy's accomplishments. The world truly lost a wonderful citizen and role model.
Andy was my classmate all through school and we graduated with our other 52 classmates in '77. I'll always remember Andy. He was so kind, handsome, a gentleman, he excelled in athletics and had a great sense of humor. I am so thankful to God his twins are bright, beautiful and precious.
Genie
Ozzy Ojito
May 1, 2008
Master Silva - THank-you once more for playing a big in my life and career, I talk to my students alot about you and about your teaching ways. I hope to be half of the Instructor your were. I do know that you taught me to be strong and now with hard work I own three ATA Academies, Thank you
Charles Ospitia
April 16, 2008
Master Silva,
It is still hard to this day to cope with your loss. But no matter how much time goes by you will always be a part of my life. It is incredible to see how many lives you have touched. Now that my son zachary is a student of Ziggy Guban, who used to be a student of ours, I remember how much you used to say to me that life always comes full circle. And even though Zachary never was able to meet you, you will still have a positive influence in his life because of what you and Taekwondo taught me. Thank you.
Jada Ferrer
April 12, 2008
Uncle Andy,
Debbie, Sheree, Rico, and me all send our wishes that you are doing well. We think about you every single day and we are watching out for Auntie Debbie and Aaron and Austin. May God be with you all
Michael Valladares
March 17, 2008
Mr. Silva,
my hero. God Bless you.
Raul de la Vega
March 10, 2008
Dear Debbie and boys,
I just want to say that I am glad I found this website, because I was reflecting on Master Silva's teachings and was wondering if there was anything about him on the internet. This fantastic website has helped me remembered a great friend and allowed me to learn more about an amazing person. There have been many times in my life where something has happened and then I look back and appreciate the teachings of Master Silva. Looking at the pictures brought back many good memories and I was able to remember how great it felt everytime I saw walk into the dojang to teach class. I can tell you that my brother and I will never forget the teaching and friendship of Master Silva. He was about discipline, respect, effort, success and a strong will. But above all, he was a great friend. He will never be forgotten as now, his teachings we apply not only to the dojang, but to life.
Janice Noriega 1st Degree Black belt
March 8, 2008
Debbie, Auston, Aaron and My Favorite Master in the world,
I studied with master silva since before he was a master, and My heart has completely been crushed since the day i found out... Debbie you hold a legend of him... And boys you will make one great master just like your father one day, its ur destiny....
I luv and will always master silva,
you guys hold a very special place in my heart forever
Sherry (Snyder) Paul
March 1, 2008
Dear Master Silva,
Your teachings were such an inspiration to me many years ago. I have always thought back to my early days in Taekwondo with a sense of awe in your presence. I continue on my journey but with a heavy heart. A wonderful man, great teacher and a true legend has been lost. God speed.
My prayers are with your wife and your twin boys.
With much respect,
Ozzy Ojito
February 3, 2008
Master Silva,
What can I say.....you are missed. Thank-you for everything you taught me. It was a bumpy road at times. But know you ment the best for me. I still go back to "old School" in teaching Taekwondo to my students. Who would have tought that I will make this far and still play a big role in Taekwondo. Knowing you...you probally did. Thank-you in being a big role in me becoming the Instructor I am today. Your legacy will be a part of my teaching..
Sonia Fernandez
September 28, 2007
Master Silva:
You were a great teacher and mentor, you inspired the best in all of your students - when I opened the newspaper that day and saw your obituary, my heart just sank - I had always wanted to keep in touch with you and the rest of the students in my class, but I kept putting it off, I was too busy to call, to stop by to see you and all my colleagues, I am so sorry that I didnt. I found myself so profoundly sad and it made me realize how we let our work and hectic lives take over what is so important in life. You will forever be in my heart - you will forever be my teacher and Master.
Sonia Fernandez
Cecelia & Darrell Riddick
September 26, 2007
Debbie,
Darrell and I are sorry to hear about the loss of your husband. (We just heard the news today.) We hope that the memories you have of him heal your sorrow! You and the children are in our thoughts and prayers. You were like family to us and to the “Almazans”. We would love to hear from you and hope to see you soon! Cece & Darrell
JR. ZAFRA
September 25, 2007
Deb, i am sending my deepest condolences! I never had the pleasure and the honor in meeting andy,but i know he was a great husband, father, and friend. Keep your head up, and all will be well.
Send love to the boys and you too!!!
LOVE ALWAYS
jun
Jose Juarbe
September 25, 2007
Master Silva,
To this day, I owe everything I am to you. There is not a single day that I cherish the great memories we had. Your spirit lives in me forever. I love you and miss you.
Valerie Clayton
September 3, 2007
Dear Andy's Family,
I have kept this address next to my computer for over a year now. Not knowing what I would type, not wanting to believe that Andy, strong Andy, was really gone. I say Andy, because I knew Andy before he was a Master, a husband or a father. In fact I grew up with Andy, and I knew him as his childhood name "Seaweed," the name he signed my yearbook with. Who would have thought that Seaweed would grow up to touch so many people in his life and accomplish so much in his short time! He was such a special person.
Andy's family is like my family. In his grown up years, I saw Andy come home to visit his mom "Auntie Ola", dad "Uncle Jimmy" and sister Reenea every Christmas at least. The year he brought Debbie home, his eyes sparkled. She was the one! Oh how Debbie and Andy wanted to have a family...and that dream happened when two lovely boys blessed their lives. Auston and Aaron, your dad wanted to have you with all his heart. You were his life fullfilled. Andy adored not only his lovely Debbie and sons, but he was a mamma's boy all the way! He loved his mom, and she was always singing his praise! His sister Reenea was so special to him too, a special sister and brother bond they had. Andy admired his dad's hard work, and his dad admired what his son had accomplished and was so proud of him! Andy was good to his family...to others....Andy was one of a kind. Never a frown did I see on his face, never an unkind word.
What a Master is all about, I really don't understand, but when his mom tells me of the celebrations of his life that have happened since his passing, it must be a great honor to be a Master. I just know that Master Andy or just plain Andy or Seaweed, I'm glad I knew you. Debbie, Auston, Aaron, God Bless you as you continue your life without Andy. I'm sure he's watching over you...smiling.
Pete Lara
May 12, 2007
Debbie,
Thank you for allowing the spirit of Master Silva insipire and Motivate Mr. Creed and the Cooper City Gang. My daughter got to enjoy a once in a lifetime event "her 7th Birthday" it was amazing. Since birthdays only come once a year your staff and the spirit of Master Silva once again demostated the power of training in a World Class organization. Much love to you and the kids..
Karla Smith
April 22, 2007
Debbie I'm sorry for your lose, Andy will be always in our heart.
Beth Munoz
April 15, 2007
Dear Debbie & sons:
As I sit here at my keyboard, a year after his passing, there are still no words. I visit this guest book often and feel sorrow each and every time. But then I remember things, good things. Like the time he got angry with me for laughing when you were goofing off with the workmen at the Black Belt Academy. It was just being built and he was attempting to have a staff meeting. Do you remember? He was so in love. It seems like a lifetime ago. He talked often about having children, many of us had our doubts that it would happen for him. And then there was you. You gave him everything that he ever wanted in life. With all that he had and all that he was, you completed him. And so, at his passing I imagine there was peace.
You and the boys are in my prayers and in my thoughts often.
Bob Terrell
April 14, 2007
Dear Debbie, the Boys and Master Silva's Family,
It has been a year and I can't help but feel HE is missed by all of us, "as if it were yesterday".
A day doesn't go by, without my relating to something I learned from him.
Although I could not be there, my prayers were with all for the memorial.
Love always
Jadalaine Ferrer
April 12, 2007
Dear Auntie Debbie, Aaron, and Auston,
It has been one year ago that you have lost someone most special to you. In the time of need we will always help you. Uncle Andy has taught me almost evrything I know. It has been difficult for me to. I don't know why things are turning out this way, but I know it's because Uncle Andy is not here, but he will forever remain in our hearts. I give you all my love and sorrow.
Laura and David Kowkabany
April 12, 2007
Today marks one year since Master Silva passed away. While the year has brought healing, it does not mean that our dear friend and brother has been forgotten.
Debbie, Aaron and Auston, you are being held close in our thoughts and prayers today. Love, the Kowkabany's
Nattasha Delpuppo
March 17, 2007
Master Silva was a speacial person to me!!I will never forget him!he means alot to me and many people but he is the one that made me the person who i am today!!theres many things i learned from Master Silva but there are to many to mention!!!
so i just wanted to say that rest in peace and remember you were a great insperation to everyone!!!
May God Be With You!!!
Iliana Garcia
December 19, 2006
Master Silva was many things to many people. Father, son, instructor, friend, the list goes on and on, but to me he was my hero. To me Master Silva was the true definition of persistance and courage. From the day I walked into the academy I had always been told of the great things that he has done and I could not help but wonder if maybe that could one day be me.
I remember the words I heard him say at one black belt testing which were "A true black belt does not need luck they are as victorious as they make themselves." These words I will never forget.
So Master Silva I thank you so much for you have made me into who I am today. Debbie, Aaron, and Auston know that the Garcia family will always be there for you and we love you all so much!!!!
May God bless you Master Silva!!!
Ozzy Ojito
December 13, 2006
Master Silva I will never forget you. You were and still are a big part of my life. You were my first instructor and gave me the roots and foundation of what I am today. I love teaching Taekwondo and everyday I bring back and remeber somthing that you taught me. We all lost when he passed on.
Auston, Jada * Aaron Worlds 2006
September 30, 2006
MeMa,Jada,Aaron,Debbie&Auston Boys 1`st Tropheys Worlds 2006
September 30, 2006
Frances, Jada & Andy Vacation
September 30, 2006
Debbie Jada & Andy June 2000
September 30, 2006
Frances Velasco
September 28, 2006
I miss you Uncle Andy.
Brian Chapman
September 13, 2006
Master Silva encouraged us all to do things we would never even have thought about doing. To me he is an amazing man. Many people miss him, but he is in a better place now. So we should all think positive thoughts just like Master Silva encouraged in all of us. We all think of Master Silva as a role model, a leader, a freind, a husband, a father, and the best master and instuctor a child or adult could ever have asked.
With love,
Brian Spencer Chapman
11 years old, 2nd Degree Black Belt
Brian Chapman
September 13, 2006
Master Silva has encouraged us all to do things we would never even think about doing. To me he is an exhilarating man. A lot of people miss him, but he is in a better place now. So we should all think positive things just like Master Silva would have. We all think of Master Silva as a romodel, a leader, a freind, and the best master and instuctor a child or adult could ever ask for.
With love,
Brian Spencer Chapman
Michael Hardegree
September 13, 2006
Master Silva is one of the greatest people I have come to know thus far in my life. I have been with Master Silva since 1992, when I started my Taekwondo journey as his first Tiny Tiger.
Since the day I meet Master Silva, I have always wanted to be like him in every aspect. Whether it be his great personality or maybe eve his great abilities as an instructor and most importantly in martial arts. He has always been like Superman to me. He could do anything and everything with ease. I always wanted to be like that.
Master Silva has taught me many things in my life. The morals and ideas that I value the most are those of becoming the greatest instructor in the world, as he was to me. Everyday I use his ideas and drills that he showed me, in my classes today. He really is the heart and soul of my Taekwondo.
Master Silva, you are the person who has guided me to what is becoming greatness. I have you to thank for all my accomplishments in Taekwondo. Thank you for all the classes, advice, and moral support in everything I have done.
God bless you and may you Rest In Peace.
Debbie, thank you for all the things you have done for me, you truly are the sweetest person in the world. If you ever need anything I'll be here for you. Make sure you take care of those Future Master Aaron and Auston Silva. Tell them that Mr. Hardegree will be there to play with them if they ever need a basketball or football buddy.
God bless you guys.
McARTHUR MIXON
September 12, 2006
WE MISS YOU VERY MUCH.WISH WE COULD HAVE SPENT MORE TIME TOGETHER.UNCLE BUDDY&AUNT DORIS.
Jennie Vallina
September 11, 2006
Master Silva, you came into our lives and knew you for such a short time, but what you leave behind will live in us forever. My boys looked up to you. They thought you were awesome, all the stories, all the pictures, you are a legend to them. My brother in law was one of your first students. He introduced my boys, Brandon and Austin to Taekwondo because he knew the wonderful values they would receive. I thank God each day for you, for your schools, for your love of martial arts which you passed on to your instructors and students. Two years ago, Brandon and Austin decided to become Champions like you. They worked hard, but they will never forget when you told them you knew they could do it. This past June 2006, at Top Ten World Championships, they competed at they and won! I prayed, right when it was their turn, for you to guide them , protect them, and give them strength and confidence to do their BEST. I felt your presence,like a guardian angel, and I hope they made you proud.
Debbie, Aaron, and Auston...We love you like family. Brandon and Austin love your boys and smile every time they spend time together. You know we will always be here, and we pray for you. I will always have a never ending supply of gummy bears for you guys! We Love You!
Carlos Cohen
September 10, 2006
Ever since I meet Master Silva, I remember him always giving everyone he new, good advice, helping people improve in every aspect imaginable.
I personally owe him the fact that today I am a better martial artist, better father, better husband, even gave me financial advice, how to improve my management skills and I could go on and on. It was like he had this extra energy to advice people the best way he could.
Today, I if I find myself in a situation where I need to make a decision, I constatly ask myself. What would Master Silva would do if he was to make this decision? It really helps.
I fell bessed that God put him on my path to guide me.
God Bless you Master Silva.
Daniel Benitez
August 31, 2006
I had met Master Silva later in my life. My respect and admiration for him went beyond his martial arts achievements, for he showed the outmost courage in fighting to the end... God Bless You Master Silva...
Black Belt Testing 10/05 - Brian & Master Silva
August 29, 2006
Black Belt Testing 10/05 - Auston, Brian & Aaron
August 29, 2006
Showing 1 - 100 of 154 results
Make a Donation
in James Silva's name
Memorial Events
for James Silva
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Silva's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
