Norbert J. Sylvestre

Norbert J. Sylvestre, 85, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 28, 2025, in Coventry, R.I. He was born on Halloween, October 31, 1939, in Providence, R.I. to the late Euclide Sylvestre and the late Yvonne (Lafond) Sylvestre.
Affectionally known as "Pepére" by his family, he was a deeply devoted family man. He loved all his girls – all four of them (his wife and three daughters), who brought him much joy. He was married to his lovely bride for 62 years. He was the #1 fan of his daughters in their early days when they played sports, sitting in his car honking his horn (at softball games)! His joy just grew when he became a grandfather and he got to watch his grandchildren's sports. His love of family was particularly evident during family get-togethers, particularly holidays and summer family parties, when he would watch the family grow (6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren). It truly brought him so much joy.
Pepére was a huge fan of the Red Sox and Patriots and was so grateful that he got to experience championships.
He has always loved the ocean, along the shores of Southern Rhode Island and raised all his children to enjoy his love for it as well. Whether the family was fishing, quahogging, clamming, or catching crabs, the look on his face told you of the great happiness he was experiencing. For many years, he would rent beach houses where the family would gather creating great memories to be cherished. He always enjoyed a spirited game of Yahtzee where you'd get to see a hint of competitiveness in his eyes and smile. His favorite places included East Wall (Narragansett) and Beavertail (Jamestown)
The final years of his life were a bit of a struggle as his mobility seriously declined but he showed an indomitable spirit to ride the stationary bike and 'crab walk' in his wheelchair to improve his health motivated by the primary focus of his life his family.
Norbert is survived by his wife, Jeanette (Ballantine) Sylvestre; three daughters, Michelle Ricci and her husband Mike, Elaine Palmiere, and Jennifer Clark and her husband Jason; his cherished grandchildren, Jackie, Mike, Chris, Meaghan, Samantha and Matt; as well as his adored great-grandchildren, Cyrus and Jameson. He also leaves behind his adored sister, Rita Murray. He is predeceased by three infant siblings, Normand, Aline, and Euclide.
A private family service will be held to honor the life of Norbert. The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Beavertail Lighthouse Museum Association.