New Bedford – Willard “Bill” Sylvia, died Friday, January 30, 2009 unexpectedly at home. He was the beloved husband of the late Olive (Sylvia) Sylvia. He was the brother of Wallace Sylvia of S. Dartmouth, William Sylvia of Rochester, Virginia “Bobby” Alexander of New Bedford, Wilhelmina Muzzy Reynolds of Acushnet and Winona Barbosa of New Bedford. Mr. Sylvia was the brother of the late Wilson Sylvia, Winifred Sylvia and Wanda Botelho. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Sylvia was a son of the late Alfred and Virginia (Grace) Sylvia. He was born in New Bedford and lived in this area all of his life. Mr. Sylvia was employed as a carpenter in the construction industry. Mr. Sylvia was a WWII army veteran. He served in Company L, 350th Infantry in Italy, he received 3 Bronze Star Medals of Heroism in ground combat, the Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal, E.T.O. 4 Bronze, Campaign Battle Stars and a Victory Medal.
Mr. Sylvia’s Funeral will be Tuesday from the Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth St. Religious services will be private at the convenience of the family. Burial will take place at St. John Cemetery. Visiting hours were also private.