Peter A. Silvia, age 86, adored husband, father, and grandfather passed away unexpectedly on July 20, 2026.

Peter was born on September 10, 1939 at home to Alfred Silvia and Beatrice Silvia (Oliveria) of Middletown, RI. The eldest of 6 children, Peter grew up in Middletown working on his family's farm where he developed his hard work ethic and took the role as eldest very seriously, always putting the needs of others first.

Peter met his beloved wife Frances (Fran) Stillwell at age 19 and they married in 1961. A devoted husband, they shared a beautiful life together for 65 years.

Peter served in the US Navy from 1960-1970 aboard the USS Yosemite, USS Fred T Berry, and USS Edward McDonald as Damage Control First Class. Following his service, Peter worked various jobs including oil delivery driver, and bus driver. He then worked 20 years with JT O'Connell Home and Builders in Middletown, from where he retired in 2001.

In his retirement Peter fully embraced his roles of caring husband, father, and Papa. Peter enjoyed cooking, target shooting, playing the guitar, and caring for his home and family. He took lawn care very seriously, no dandelion was safe.

Above all else, Peter loved spending time with his family. An avid cook himself, he was in his element spending time in the kitchen with his granddaughters every Sunday. His family's annual 4th of July clam boil was the event he looked forward to most.

A lover of music, in his youth Peter performed in many bands playing electric and acoustic guitars all around Aquidneck Island. In his later years he enjoyed playing at home with his granddaughter as well as at the Portsmouth Senior Center. He was an eternal lover of classic rock and roll and country western.

Peter is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Joseph Silvia (Papa Joe) and sister-in-law Winifred Silvia (Nana Winnie) of Newport, RI, brother Alfred Silvia of Portsmouth, RI, and sister Beatrice Louise.

He is survived by his adoring wife Frances Silvia (Stillwell), daughter Jacqueline (Edwin) Schulz of Portsmouth, RI, granddaughters Kathryn (Andrew) Jones of Charlottesville, VA, Rachel Schulz of Westport, MA, and Laura Schulz of Portsmouth, RI. He is also survived by his sister Rosemarie Carey of Mt Washington, KY, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Peter was immensely loved by all who knew him and is deeply missed.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, July 29 from 4pm-6pm, and a memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, July 30 at 10am. Both will be held at Connors Funeral Home in Portsmouth, RI.