In loving memory of

James Francis Silvia
April 9, 1947 - July 10, 2012

James Francis Silvia, 65, of Middletown, RI died at his home on July 10, 2012.He was the only son of the late Francis P. and Dorothy M. (Souza) Silvia, lifelong residents of Middletown. Jim was a graduate of Middletown High School, class of 1965. He grew up on Green End Farm, working as a right hand man with his Father and uncles until 1984, at which time they decided to stop farming to enjoy their retirement. After 25 years of potato farming, Jim started his own welding business in Middletown, Jim Silvia's Welding. This had been a passion of his for years and he was extremely talented in his craft.Jim had many hobbies as a young man. He enjoyed motorcycles, working on tractors, cars, building dune buggies, woodworking and playing guitar. He was quick with his wit, had a unique sense of humor and was always more than willing to help his friends and family whenever he was able. In his later years he was known for his amazing welding skills. He designed and created frames for topiaries for several Preservation Society properties in which his work was featured in Better Homes and Gardens. He created these amazing topiaries for other businesses and various private homes, as well. His wrought iron gates, signs and other work can be seen throughout Aquidneck Island. Jim is survived by his daughters, Tanis Silvia and Heather Silvia Jones; granddaughter, Sydney Jones; sisters, Jerilyn Silvia, Joanne DiTucci and Judith Silvia-Nelson; many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.Calling hours are respectfully omitted. Burial will be private at St. Columba's Catholic Cemetery in Middletown. He will be laid to rest with his beloved parents. Donations in Jim's memory can be made to the Middletown Rescue Wagon Association, 239 Wyatt Road, Middletown, RI, 02842. They were so very helpful to our family, especially to Jim over the years.

Tributes

Thomas Goff - July 21, 2012 at.. wrote on Jul 10, 2012:

"To the Silvia Family,Over the years, Jim helped me on many a sign project; from creating sign brackets to actually installing them on location. He was my number one choice for welding. Many times I would bring him a small job and he wouldn't even charge me. He would just say, "Bring me a bigger job next time and we'll work it out". One of the pieces he created was a two tiered plant stand for my wife Pam. She loves flowers. We will cherish it forever. I am truly sorry for your loss. I will miss my friend Jim.Tom Goff"

Phil Thow - July 17, 2012 at 0.. wrote on Jul 10, 2012:

"To the Silvia Family,We are so sorry for your loss. Jim was very talented - his help and knowledge of fixing things was amazing! We will miss him as our neighbor and our friend.The Thow Family"

beth ward - July 17, 2012 at 0.. wrote on Jul 10, 2012:

"Dear Tanis, Patrick, Heather, Sydney & Carole,Please accept our deepest condolences for the loss of Jim. May God hold you all in the palm of his hand.Sincerely,Phil & Beth (Murphy) Ward"

Lynn Tramonti - July 17, 2012 .. wrote on Jul 10, 2012:

"Heather and Family, Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your Dad. I will keep all of you in my prayers."

Michele Cardoza Kluth - July 1.. wrote on Jul 10, 2012:

"Jerilyn and family, so very sorry to hear of the passing of your brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Michele and Brian Kluth"

Michele Cardoza Kluth - July 1.. wrote on Jul 10, 2012:

"Michele Cardoza Kluth lit a candle in memory of James Francis Silvia"

susan ruhle - July 17, 2012 at.. wrote on Jul 10, 2012:

"My deepest sympathy.Thoughts and prayers are with the family."