Manuel R. Sylvia

Manuel "Manny" R. Sylvia Jr., 78, passed away peacefully in his home on March 7, 2026 with his family by his side. Whether the "R" was for "Richard" or "Rezendes" has been a family mystery for decades and will now endure forever.

Manny was born at Nantucket Cottage Hospital on January 14, 1948. He was the youngest of three children, and the only son. Manny graduated from Nantucket High School in 1967, then served in the army, being stationed in Colorado. While in the service, he enjoyed photography and horseback riding during his free time. Ever selfless, Manny always told his children that he would volunteer to stay on base during any big holidays. He did this because he was single and without kids at the time and wanted the servicemen who had families of their own to spend the time with their children.

On June 14, 1975, he married Sarah "Sally" Bodman in a small ceremony at the First Congregational Church of Nantucket. They had 3 children whom he loved with all of his heart. His family was his world, and he never wasted an opportunity to talk about his kids and grandkids.

Manny was always willing to lend a helping hand, especially to those he loved. When not running his own carpentry and caretaking business, Manny could often be found volunteering his carpentry skills at the family's church or chaperoning all three of his children on their school trips to Washington DC. However, Manny found his true professional passion at the Nantucket Historical Association, helping to maintain the various historic buildings and sites across the island. He knew the Old Mill like the back of his hand and continued to help with it even after retirement.

He was also a long-time member of the local Freemason's lodge. One of the highlights of his time in the lodge, and indeed his life, was watching his son, Justin, become the Worshipful Master of the Lodge. He spent countless hours helping Justin prepare and study, and watched with pride as he served.

Manny is described by many as 'a salt of the earth' kind of man. He shared his carpentry knowledge with many over the years. He felt woodworking was a lost art, and loved passing his knowledge and expertise down to others. At the end of the day, he could always be found in his recliner with a can of Budweiser in his hand while sharing stories of days gone by with his family.

Manny is predeceased by his parents, Manuel and Zelmira Sylvia, and his sisters Helen Juliano and Margo Wiechens.

Manny is survived by his wife, Sally (Bodman) Sylvia, his son Justin Sylvia, and his daughters Danielle Ochoa and Celeste Ikolodo. He also leaves behind two sons-in-law (David Ochoa and Wilfred Ikolodo), his grandchildren (Nicolaus Ochoa, Lucas Ikolodo, Ofelia Ochoa, and Noelle Ikolodo), along with a brother-in-law, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A small celebration of life will be planned for the spring.