It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary L. (Bradley) Silva, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Mary passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 80, following a long and courageous battle with COPD. Mary was the loving wife of Richard L. Silva, who predeceased her on January 22, 2024.
Born in Medford, Massachusetts, she lived a life filled with love, laughter, and generosity. A woman of many talents and boundless energy, Mary was known for her adventurous spirit—never one to shy away from water skiing at the family camp in Windham, playing cards at the beach or diving headfirst into her beloved crafts. She had a creative soul and a heart made for giving.
For many years, Mary dedicated herself to teaching children with special needs, offering not only her guidance and patience but her genuine warmth and compassion. She had what some would call the “gift of gab,” able to strike up a conversation with anyone and leave them smiling. Her kindness touched all who met her—whether in a passing moment or a lifelong friendship.
Above all, Mary loved her family deeply. Her devotion to those she held close was unwavering and evident in every part of her life. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and compassion—a reminder to all of us to live with open hearts and to cherish the people around us.
Proud of her Irish heritage, Mary carried its spirit with her—feisty, loyal, and, yes, able to hold a grudge for years if needed. She will be missed dearly for her warmth, her stories, and her unshakeable love of shopping.
Mary is survived by her daughter Maureen Silva and husband Thomas Mager; her son James Silva and daughter-in-law Stacey; her grandchildren Jessica Carbone and husband David, Kassidy Silva Power and husband Zack, and Dominick Silva; and her great-grandchildren Owen and Harper Carbone. She is also survived by numerous brothers- and sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, godchildren, and dear friends who will miss her gift of gab and generous heart.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/donate.
Services will be held at Burke-Magliozzi Funeral Home, 390 North Main Street, Andover, MA on Sunday, April 27th. Visiting hours will be from 2:00 to 5:00 PM, with a short service to follow at 5:00 PM. For directions and more information, please visit www.burkemagliozzi.com.