Vonne Silvia

Vonne Toodles Silvia, born Vonne A. Boone, formerly of 87 Girard Avenue, Newport RI died Saturday, February 12, 2011 at the Grand Islander Health Care Center in Middletown surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 25, 1928 in Jamestown, RI she was the firstborn daughter of William E. Boone and Viola DeVere Boone.She was the wife of the late Raymond J. Silvia.Prior to her retirement, Toodles worked as a switchboard operator for Ma Bell and the Sheraton Islander/Doubletree Inn, as well as working at the Quality Bakery for many years. She was a graduate of the historic Swinburne School in Newport where her specialty was in cake decorating. She baked and decorated hundreds of wedding cakes as well as other types of cakes for her friends, family, and many repeat customers. Even after she left the Quality Bakery to work part time from her home the owner of the Quality Bakery would call on her occasionally for a special cake to be made. Toodles was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW Post 4487 in Middletown, RI. She was a member of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and was an avid animal lover. She always had a sweet smile, a warm compliment, or a humorous wisecrack for those who were fortunate to have known her.She is survived by her five children: Lenny Harkin of Swansea, MA; Dale Harkin of Portsmouth, Linda Lee Chittam of Newport, Anne Squeaky Gill-Cooney of Saunderstown, and Frances Gill-Turano of Denver, CO. She also leaves her sister and companion, Viola Bunny Roberts of Newport, 21 grandchildren, and 22 great grandchildren. Lastly she leaves her cat Mandy, who brought her many years of love and joy. Toodles will be sadly missed - her memory will always bring joy to our hearts.Calling hours will be Wednesday, February 16 from 4-8pm at the Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport. Her funeral will be held on Thursday at 1pm in the funeral home.Committal prayers will take place at Newport Memorial Park in Middletown, RI immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Robert Potter League for Animals. PO Box 412, Newport, RI 02842.