Leonel 'Leo' Sylvia

New Bedford – Leonel “Leo” Sylvia, age 97, of New Bedford, MA passed away on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 after a brief illness surrounded by his loved ones. He was the beloved husband of the late Barbara (Cunha) Sylvia.

Leo was born in New Bedford, MA and was the son of the late Joseph V. Sylvia and Antoinette (Guertin) Sylvia. He had been a U.S. Army Veteran, who served during WWII and later on went to work for International Dryer for many years.

Leo had lived life on his own terms. He was well known walking throughout the neighborhood. Leo had a special love for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were always a joy to spend time with. He was always the first one to jump in and play with the children and was a big kid at heart himself.

He is survived by his 4 children, Rose Marie Steele, Kathleen Nobriga, Diane Sylvia and Lori-Anne Sylvia; his loving grandchildren, Sherri Nobriga-Bonica and her husband, Jason Bonica, Saydi Smith and her significant other, Lukas Quintin, Jarrid Thibeault and his long-time companion, Lyndsey Dillon; his beloved great-grandchildren, Skyla Quintin, Ryan Bonica, Dominick Thibeault, Max Bonica and Rilyn Quintin.

Leo’s visiting hours will be held on Friday, January 20, 2023 at Perry Funeral Home from 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. His funeral will take place on Saturday, beginning in the funeral home at 9:00 A.M. and followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church at 10:00 A.M. Burial will immediately follow in Rural Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford MA.