Joseph "Joey" Sylvia

1958 - 2021

Oakdale - In the peaceful morning hours of June 1, Joseph "Joey" Sylvia quietly slipped away ending his courageous 5-year battle with cancer with his family by his side.

Joey was born Nov. 24, 1958, in New London, to the late Judith (Bartkiewicz) and Frank Sylvia. He attended Montville schools and graduated in 1976 from Montville High.

He retired in January 2020, from the Public Works Department of the City of New London after 32 years of service. Over the years Joey most notably worked for E. Johnson Florist, Ye Olde Tavern and Wise Potato Chips as a delivery driver earning the nickname "Chips".

Joey's personality drew in many friends over the years. He had no acquaintances, if he knew you, you were his friend, buddy, or his pal. It never mattered how long since he had seen you, you were still part of his life. Being in the public eye in Public Works he had the opportunity to meet many people and he became well known throughout the community. He was always seen with a smile on his face and absolutely loved talking to people.

Joey began dating Ann (Podvarney) in 1998 and they were married in May 2013. In January 2014 they welcomed their pride and joy, Little Joey. They have resided in Oakdale for the past 17 years.

Joey's many loves have included golf, bowling, the Rams, Red Sox, and spending time at the Mohegan Sun Race Book where his knack to pick winners was uncanny. He looked forward to his annual vacations to the family condo in Jupiter, Fla., where he was able to spend time and catch up with his friend Ray from Michigan.

The other more important loves were his fur babies, Pal, Rooney, and Sam as well as all the critters that came to dine in the backyard. He loved taking care of his birds, squirrels, turkeys and whatever else decided to come to visit. He had a special love for his hummingbirds.

Weather always fascinated Joey and like his ability to accurately put odds on any sporting events he was usually spot on when it came to the weather. Everyone would contact him to find out how much snow was expected and when it would start. If he could have, he would have had the Weather Channel on 24/7.

Joey could light up even the darkest days of anyone's life with his quick wit, imitations of Rodney Dangerfield, the Cowardly Lion and by his randomly breaking into song. One of his most loved songs was Tim McGraw's "Humble and Kind" which spoke to his caring personality and how he tried to live his life.

His humor was one of a kind to all who knew him best and was with him right to the end of his life. Joey absolutely loved life and tried to always be there for anyone who needed him. He made it a point to make sure not to miss any wakes or funerals to be sure to give comfort to those grieving. He was a kind soul who understood that we are not here for a long period of time so helping others in whatever way was how he lived his life.

Joey leaves behind his beloved wife, Ann; his son Joseph who he loved more than life itself; his fierce protector Rooney; sisters, Jean Tillinghast (John) of Quaker Hill, June Cummings of Lyme; brother-in-law Joseph Podvarney (Kerri) of New Jersey; nieces, Jennifer, Amy and Melissa; nephews Gabriel and Zachary of New Jersey; great-nephews, Sean, Alex and Brady; along with his great-nieces, Krysti, Anastasia and Abigail; numerous cousins, uncles, aunts and other extended family and friends.

He was predeceased by his brother John; and parents, Frank and Judith; as well as his beloved dog, Pal.

Joey was blessed to have two dear lifelong friends who never left his side, Earl Langley of Waterford and Donald Radicioni of Oakdale.

Calling hours are from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, June 6, at the Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 12 Ocean Ave., New London. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, June 7, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Old Norwich, Road, Quaker Hill.
To view Joey's online video tribute and to sign the online guest book, please visit www.neilanfuneralhome.com.