Barbara A. Silva

Barbara A. Silva, 90, of Fort Wayne, passed away at 8:42 pm Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at Stillwater Hospice Home. Barbara was born on August 16, 1934, in Fort Wayne, IN, the daughter of Everett and Evelyn (Nix) Hilgeman. She graduated from Southside High School with the class of 1952. Barbara then married the love of her life, Thomas W., on December 27, 1952, in Fort Wayne, IN; together they shared 58 wonderful years before he preceded her in death on February 25, 2011. She retired from their family business, Anthony Wayne Corporation of Ft. Wayne, IN, after many years of service. Barbara was a member of the Heritage Club, Women’s Reading Club, Antique Study Club, Pelee Island Sailing Society, and the Great Lakes Cruising Club. She was also a devoted member of the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. Barbara was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was her pride and joy. She truly took honor in being the matriarch of the family. She was an amazing cook and enjoyed having family get-togethers where everyone was able to be under one roof. Barbara was also known for her homeopathic vitamins and care packages she would create to treat her sick family members. In her spare time, she was an avid reader. Barbara loved spending time with her friends and attending club meetings for the various groups she was a part of. She also loved anything and everything to do outdoors, whether it was camping, hunting, fishing, or any activity to do with being on the water. Survivors include her Daughter, Amy Silva of Fort Wayne, IN; Son, Frank W (Susan) Silva II of Fort Wayne, IN; Grandson, Justin (Elizabeth) Keefer of Fort Wayne, IN; Granddaughter, Laura (Joseph) Brita of Fort Wayne, IN; Six Great Grandchildren, Chloe, Kristina, Mia, Alex, JJ, and Drew; Four Step-Grandchildren, Jason (Jenny), Brad (Brandi), Sarah (Nate), and Tyler (Casey). She is preceded in death by her Husband, Thomas W. Silva, Father, Everett Hilgeman, Mother, Evelyn Hilgeman, and Sister, Corinne Papai. Visitation will be from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington, IN. Memorial services will be held at 3:00 pm Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Bailey-Love Mortuary. Preferred memorials to Lexi’s Voice, in care of Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington, IN, 46750. Please sign the online guest book at www.baileylove.com. Bailey-Love Mortuary is honored to serve the family of Barbara A. Silva.

Barbara A. Silva

August 16, 1934 - November 13, 2024