News Summary
Margaret Walsh Silvia, a beloved longtime resident of Hampton, VA, passed away at the age of 94. Known for her nurturing spirit, she leaves behind a large family and a legacy of kindness. Margaret enjoyed a fulfilling career at JC Penney and cherished her time spent with family, especially during holiday gatherings. Her commitment to faith and community will be honored during the upcoming visitation and service.
Hampton, VA — Longtime resident Margaret Walsh Silvia passed away on September 23, 2025, at Sentara Williamsburg Hospital, marking the end of a remarkable 94 years of life. Born on May 31, 1931, in Fort Kent, Maine, Margaret was the last surviving child of Mary and John Walsh, whose family included nine siblings.
Margaret enjoyed a long marriage of 68 years to her husband, Gilbert Silvia Jr., whom she married on August 8, 1952. Their life together spanned many locations and experiences due to Gilbert’s career in the Air Force, during which they spent 24 years traveling before settling in Virginia. Margaret and Gilbert raised three children: Stephen (Michela) Silvia of Washington DC, Gary (Jackie) Silvia of Williamsburg, VA, and Susan Fanning of King and Queen County, VA. This family journey produced five grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren who filled Margaret’s life with joy.
In her professional life, Margaret devoted 18 years working at JC Penney in the business office located in Hampton, VA. After her retirement, she embraced her hobbies, which included sewing clothes for her grandchildren, engaging in cross-stitching, and, perhaps most cherished, preparing Thanksgiving and Christmas meals for family and friends. Margaret was known for her warm spirit and nurturing nature, which resonated in her roles as a mother and grandmother.
Margaret Silvia will be honored at a visitation and service scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home in Hampton, VA. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hampton, VA, reflecting Margaret’s connection to her faith and community.
Margaret Walsh Silvia’s legacy lives on through her family and the many lives she touched during her lifetime. Her dedication to family, her work, and her community has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her.
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Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
