It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John H. Silva, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, dedicated teacher, and devout Catholic. John peacefully departed from this world on February 12, 2024, at the age of 76, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on January 5, 1948, in Austin, Texas, to Juan and Pilar Silva. He grew up in Tipton, Oklahoma and moved to Poteet to live with his grandmother at the age of 10 and eventually graduated from Poteet High School. John went on to obtain a Bachelor's Degree and pursue a career in education, dedicating himself to teaching Spanish to students in Hondo and eventually retiring from Charlotte ISD after many years of dedication.

John had a genuine appreciation for music and this passion manifested in his ability to play both the piano and guitar. Music was a cherished part of his life and he shared this gift as a member of the St. Philip's choir. He also enjoyed playing the guitar and singing worship songs together with his family.

Throughout his life, John held a deep faith in Christ, nurtured from his early years by his grandmother. He once aspired to become a priest, a testament to his unwavering commitment to serving God and his community. John's dedication extended beyond his religious duties as he actively participated in the St. Philip's Benizi Men's Club, Knights of Columbus, and Financial Council. He embodied the spirit of community service which was exhibited as the founder of the St. Philip's Benizi Food Pantry which he worked with his wife, and extended family until his health no longer permitted.  John believed in making a difference and generously gave his time and energy to volunteering various organizations including the Poteet Band Boosters.

John was married to his high school sweetheart, Louisa, for 57 years.  They built a life together filled with love, laughter and lasting memories. John had a sense of humor and a gift for storytelling that could captivate any audience. Popular amongst his daughters and nieces were his "What's Wrong John" stories, which were tall-tales about his boyhood adventures with his brother Larry. Able to see the humor in life's ups and downs, he brought laughter into the lives of those around him, even in the toughest of circumstances.

A strong and independent man, John was known for his resiliency and his ability to master various trades from selling used cars to delivering newspapers. He approached life with determination, facing challenges head-on and overcoming them with the grace of God. In his presence, one couldn't help but be inspired by his strength and faith.

John will be deeply missed by his wife, Louisa Silva, his constant companion throughout their remarkable journey. His 4 daughters Patricia Perez (Sam) from Grandbury, Linda Silva-Hernandez (Raul- deceased), Loretta Zavala (Adam), and Katherine Krempin (Marcus) all of Poteet; brothers Larry Martinez (Rosa) of Houston, Rudy Bautista (Mary) from Muskogee, Oklahoma, Victor Bautista (Donna) Tipton, OK, Adolph Bautista (Carmen) from Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, Felix Bautista (Kay) from Yukon, OK, and Johnny Bautista (Sherrolyn) of Durant, OK; and grandchildren John Nicholas Cervantez, Cierra Cervantez from Austin, Lauren Zavala of Torey Hills, CA, Emily Zavala, Alexandra Zavala and Nathan Krempin of Poteet. He is preceded in death by his mother, Pilar Bautista.  He will also be fondly remembered by his friends, colleagues, and the countless lives he touched through his teaching and community involvement.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 from 2:00-9:00 p.m. with the reciting of the rosary at 7:00 pm at Hurley Funeral Home.  A funeral mass will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday, February 15, 2024 at St. Philip Catholic Church.
John H Silva, a man of faith, compassion, and laughter, leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He will be forever remembered and forever missed. May his soul rest in eternal peace.