Rhoda Silva, treasured mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away on May 30, 2025 at the great age of 86.  

Rhoda was born in West Palm Beach, Florida on January 26, 1939 to Mahiba and Akl Ina. When Rhoda was a young girl she moved with her family to Magnolia, Massachusetts. She attended Gloucester High School graduating in 1957. It was at a high school dance where she met Bernie Silva to whom she was married 63 years. It was a remarkable love story right up until Bernie’s death in 2022, which left her heartbroken. 

Rhoda’s mother owned Ina’s Dress Shop in Magnolia and it was the perfect setting for Rhoda to use her flair for fashion in helping customers find that perfect outfit and all the accessories for any occasion. It was Rhoda’s genuine warm and engaging personality that kept the same customers returning year after year, some of whom became great friends. 

Rhoda also worked as a dental assistant in her brother Sam’s practice and then for Dr. Dana Powers. Rhoda had a gift for knowing which patients were a bit nervous and she would chat and joke with them to put them at ease. 

Rhoda, never without lipstick or high heels, always exuded class and elegance. She was a beautiful woman with a smile that could light up a room and a personality that endeared her to all who met her. When Rhoda made friends, they were friends for life. 

In their retirement years, Rhoda and Bernie moved to Maine to be closer to their daughter and grandson. Rhoda ditched the high heels, but not the lipstick, joined the Rockport, Maine Garden Club, played bunco and enjoyed lunches with the “Juliets”, once again making friends for life. 

In 2020, Rhoda’s first love, Bernie, took a backseat to her new love, Henry, her great-grandson born on her birthday! She had so much fun finding him adorable outfits and always made sure she had a surprise dino toy ready whenever she saw him. 

Rhoda was predeceased by her husband, Bernie, and her brothers, Alfred Ina and Dr. Samuel Ina.

She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Silva (Mark); her grandson, Keith Drago (Stephanie); her great-grandson, Henry Drago; sisters Irene Shaker and Elinor (Pete) Bowes, and many nieces and nephews. 

Family and friends are welcome to a celebration of Rhoda’s well-lived life on Wednesday, June 11, from 9:30 - 1:30 p.m., at Union Hall, 24 Central Street, Rockport, ME. A wonderful selection of sugar and carbs will be provided – just as Rhoda would have wanted!

In lieu of flowers, please hug your loved ones.