New Bedford – Joseph James Sylvia, age 73 of New Bedford, passed away on Saturday, February 28th, 2015 at St. Luke’s Hospital. He was the loving Husband of Bernice (Housewright) and the son of Casilda (Reis) and Manuel Sylvia.
Joseph was a lifelong resident of this area and was the proprietor of a local bar. He also served proudly in the United States Coast Guard during the Vietnam era.
His family includes, 5 children: Keith Sylvia and his wife Deborah of Springfield, VA, Gary Sylvia of New Jersey, Holly Braley of Fairhaven, Lynne Ribeiro and her husband Michael of New Bedford, and Michelle Samagaio and her husband Shad, of New Bedford; 2 Siblings: Patricia Day and her husband George of Virginia, and the late Gerald Sylvia; as well as 11 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
In accordance with his wishes Joseph will be cremated. Visiting hours with his cremains present will take place on Thursday March 12,2015 from 4:00 – 5:30 followed by a Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe at St James Church beginning promptly at 6:00 P.M.. Please omit flowers. Arrangements placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth St. in New Bedford.