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Andy Silva Obituary

Andy Silva APALACHICOLA - Andy Silva, 46, a tae kwon do master, died April 12, 2006, after a long battle with cancer. The graveside service will be at 10 a.m. EDT Saturday at Magnolia Cemetery. A visitation will be at 11 a.m. EDT Friday at the Church of God in Easpoint. Kelley Funeral Home (850-697-3366) is handling arrangements. Master Silva started his career in law enforcement in his hometown of Apalachicola at the age of 18 as the youngest police officer in Franklin County. During that time, he started training in the martial art of tae kwon do. He enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard before moving to Miami, where he joined the Florida Highway Patrol, excelling as a firearms instructor and SWAT team member. His first ATA Tae kwon do School was opened in 1988, and he quickly became an important figure in the local community due to his extraordinary dedication to teaching, integrity and love for his students. In 1990, he became the world champion in the American Tae kwon do Association. His success continued throughout the 1990s by opening several schools, developing superb students to become world champions and leading instructors. He was a leader, "a take-charge" individual, being one of the first to coach the ATA World Demo Team. The year 2000 was a highlight in his life, achieving the title of master. As a master, Andy Silva continued his personal studies to bestow his knowledge and wisdom upon his family, staff, students and the American Tae kwon do Association. He touched the lives of thousands, instilling the Songham Spirit of tae kwon do. "I will practice in the spirit of Tae kwon do, with courtesy for fellow students, loyalty for my instructors, and respect for my juniors and seniors; and, I shall live with perseverance in the spirit of Tae kwon do, having honors with others, integrity within myself, and self control in my actions." Master Andy Silva is survived by his wife, Debbie Silva; his twin boys, Aaron James and Auston James Silva; his parents, Ola Jean and James Silva Sr.; his mother- and father-in law, Anicia and George Ferrer; his sister Reenea (and husband Curtis and son Alex); brother- and sister-in law, Rodel and Lynne (and daughter Frances); numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins; and his virtual brothers, A.J. "Tony" Smith, Alex Petruzzelli, and Dr. Ausberto Hidalgo. "He will truly be missed in our community and in our hearts. His long-lasting impression will live with us forever and be of immense influence to our success. His spirit will have a great impact in our children's lives."

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Published by Tallahassee Democrat on Apr. 14, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Andy Silva

20 Entries

Sandy

March 12, 2025

I miss you so much you were my favorite male cousin and I am so grateful for you believing in me and all the things you taught me I hope to see you again in the next life rest easy my beloved.

Jadalaine Ferrer

April 11, 2007

I miss you Uncle Andy......
I remember the times we shared and how you pushed me to become the best person I can be. I'm trying so hard, but it seems to be no use. I don't know whats happening, but I know its because I miss you. I love you Uncle Andy

Linda Sellars

August 13, 2006

Ola Jean,

I was sorry to hear of the death of you son, Andy. Having lost a son myself a few years ago, I know nothing eases the pain of your loss; but Isiah 57:1 gave me some comfort.

My prayers are with you and your family. Your painting friend,

Jo Rock

July 3, 2006

Ola Jean, I am so sorry to hear of the lost of your son, Andy Silva.I know how proud you were of him, and always spoke so highly of him. Jo Rock ECP Group

Marj Hart

June 30, 2006

Ola Jean,

So sorry to hear of your loss.

Marj Hart (ECPainters)

Beverly Bush

June 30, 2006

Ola Jean,

I am so sorry to hear about your son. I know losing a child has to be the worst kind of loss and something you will never really get over. I'm not good with flowery words, but please know that I truly am sorry about Andy and offer my condolences to all of his family.

James A. Harris, Jr.

June 28, 2006

To The Silva Family:

My sincere condolences to you on the loss of your son and brother. Andy was a good man with a big heart. I will never forget the years we went to church and sunday school together. Hold on to the wonderful memories you have and remember, one day you will be together again in God's Great Kingdom.

Your Friend,

James A. Harris, Jr.

MASTER SILVA AT WORK

June 26, 2006

ANDY & SISTER

June 24, 2006

OLA JEAN&JAMES F. SILVA

June 23, 2006

ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS

I MISS YOU

AUNT DORIS MIXON

June 23, 2006

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.

IN LOVING MEMORY

UNCLE BUDDY MIXON

June 23, 2006

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006

Mitch Maulfair, D.O.

April 26, 2006

I started working out with Mr Silva in 1989. A year later, I met my wife Melanie at his school, where we both earned our blackbelts. Mr Silva was an honored guest at our wedding in 1991. Although we moved in 1994, Melanie and I think of him often, especially his ability to motivate students of all ages and abilities. He was a great martial artist, in every sense. We will miss him.

Frances Velasco

April 25, 2006

Auntie Debbie I really miss Uncle Andy so much. I'll never forget any of our memories together, i'll always remember him as a strong, intelligent, fun loving person. I love you.

Jada Ferrer

April 19, 2006

I loved him as much as you. I'm truly sorry for our lost. Auntie Debbie

Kimberly Griffin

April 19, 2006

Our deepest sympathy to the Silva Family (including ATA). My nephew, John Eric was a student at the school for about 5 years. He was barely 4 and achieved his black belt at age 8. This would never have happened if it were not for Master Silva and his staff. To the students and staff, take pleasure in the fact that you were fortunate enough to know Master Silva and be a part of him just as he will always be a part of each of us. The pain and suffering will not last forever. The good will shine through for each of us in our own time.

Alice, Kim and Gretna Dr. Carney's Office

April 19, 2006

Dear Reenea,

We were sorry to hear of your brother's death, we know how close you were to him and know your faith and memories will comfort you.

Lieutenant Robert D. Mills, Sr.

April 17, 2006

Rest in Peace My Brother.

I have many fond memories of working with Andy in the Miami area when he first became a Trooper. He always was a fine example to us all.

He will be missed...

Barbara(Smith) King

April 14, 2006

Mr. & Mrs. Silva,

I am sorry to hear that the Seniors of 1977 has lost one of our class mates. Remember all the good times that you shared with Andy. When I lost my brother it was said to me that God is making a big bouique of flowers and need one special flower and he chose him. My heart goes out to the family. You will be in my thougts and prayers.

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