RICHARD DeSILVA Jr.

RICHARD DeSILVA Jr., 102, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family on Friday, July 26, 2024 at Alpine Nursing Home, Coventry. He was the beloved husband of 71 years to the late Florence L. (Vincent) DeSilva.

Born in Funchal, Madeira, he was a son of the late Richard and Mary (Branco) DeSilva.

A member of the Greatest Generation, Richard served his country during World War II, in the United States Navy. The second born of five, “Mary’s Boys” all served in the military.

Known to all as Pop, Richard hoped to be a baseball player in his youth, but was needed to help in the family business, DeSilva’s Market in West Warwick. He made his career as a grocer, butcher, market owner, longtime employee of Star Market, and proud member of UFCW Local 328.

Richard was a loving family man who treasured his Florence. He loved to tell stories, especially with his buddies when out for weekly breakfast.

He was a faithful parishioner of St. Francis of Assisi in Warwick and later Saints John and Paul in Coventry. Richard was a true-blue Democrat and, while living in Warwick, was deeply engaged in local politics. He was an avid golfer, cook, and baked often to keep up with his notorious sweet tooth. Richard was a great lover of music and played the guitar, keyboard, and enjoyed singing in various singing groups throughout his life. Forever whistling, he never met a microphone he didn’t like. A favorite day would include a long drive and trying his luck at the casino.

At the age of 94, he and his older brother, Albert, then 97, were among the veterans who took the Rhode Island Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. which was a true highlight for him.

Richard enjoyed good health and lived a beautiful, full life. He will be missed by all who loved him.

He was the father of Roger A. DeSilva and his late wife Corrine of Cranston, Richard V. DeSilva and his wife Catherine of Warwick, and the late Lorraine A. Botts. He was grandfather of six, great-grandfather of 10, and great-great-grandfather of one. He was the brother of Albert DeSilva of Coventry and the late Manuel DeSilva, Arthur DeSilva, and Edward DeSilva.      

The family wishes to thank the dedication of all the caregivers at Alpine Nursing Home, Hope Hospice, and CharterCARE Health Partners for the excellent care given to him.

Visiting hours will be Wednesday, July 31, 2024 from 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM in the Iannotti Funeral Home at MAPLE ROOT, 2000 Nooseneck Hill Road (Route 3), Coventry. Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM in Saints John and Paul Church, 341 South Main Street, Coventry. Burial with Military Funeral Honors to follow at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter.