Obituary published on Legacy.com by Rebello Funeral Home & Crematory from Jan. 8 to Jan. 10, 2026.
Riverside -Manuel A. Silva, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in
Riverside, Rhode Island, on Wednesday January 7, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on April 2, 1932, in Faial, Azores, Manuel was the devoted son of the late Francisco and Lenore (Borges) Silva. In 1961, he left his birthplace and made the journey to Riverside, where he would build a life filled with love, laughter, and service.
Manuel was the beloved husband of Maria E. DaSilva (Fagundes) Silva, with whom he shared a remarkable journey of over 71 years of marriage. Together, they created a legacy of love and commitment that served as an inspiration to all who knew them. He was the proud father of Victor Silva and his wife, Nancy, of Riverside. His love extended to his sister, Maria A. Garcia of San Jose, California, and he was a cherished uncle to Joe Garcia, Richard Correia, Lina Garcia, and Debbie Morales, as well as many great-nieces and nephews who will fondly remember his kindness and humor.
Manuel's passion for life was evident in his dedication to his family and his work. For 26 years, he was a skilled sewing machine repairman for Health Tex Inc., a job that reflected his meticulous nature and his desire to make things work better for others. His involvement with St. Francis Xavier Church as a parishioner was a testament to his faith and his enjoyment in helping with church feasts, a tradition that brought joy to many.
Not only did Manuel have a talent for repairing sewing machines, but in his younger years, he also had a knack for painting houses, which he did as a second job. His work ethic and versatility were truly remarkable, and these qualities were just a few of the many that made him a respected member of the community.
Manuel was also a doting grandfather to Kyle V. Silva and his wife Kristen Mulvey, and Kristen M. Helmar and her husband Ian. He took great delight in his role as a great-grandfather to Natalie and Camille Helmar. His love for his family was immeasurable, and his gentle guidance and humorous anecdotes will be greatly missed. Manuel's affection extended to his fur babies, Drake and Nilla, who were his loyal companions and brought him much comfort and joy.
Those who knew Manuel will remember him as a loving, kind, and funny individual whose presence would light up a room. His laughter was contagious, and his willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need was a hallmark of his character. Manuel's life was one of purpose, happiness, and service, and his memory will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to have known him.
As we bid farewell to Manuel A. Silva, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by devotion to family, unwavering faith, and a legacy of kindness that will continue to resonate within the hearts of those he touched. Manuel's journey on earth may have come to a close, but the memories he created will forever be a beacon of love and laughter for his family and friends.
His funeral will be held on Monday January 12,2026 at 9:30am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00am in St. Francis Xavier Church, 81 North Carpenter Street, East Providence.
Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours are Monday MORNING from 9:30-10:30am.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to St. Francis Xavier Church.
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