Thomas SilviaJackson - Maj. Thomas A. Silvia, USAF (Retired), of Jackson, TN, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family in his home on October 15, 2017, at the age of 82 years.He was born on February 14, 1935 in Danbury, CT to the late Antone Silvia and Laura Spadjinske. Thomas married the love of his life Essonia Williams Silvia on August 3, 1964 and they enjoyed 53 happy years of marriage. Thomas dedicated 23 years of service to his country in the United States Air Force, is a veteran of the Vietnam War, and the recipient of two Distinguished Flying Crosses and the Bronze Star. Following his military service, Thomas served his local community as an educator at Tennessee Academy and then Haywood High School in Brownsville, TN until his retirement. Thomas was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was beloved by his family, friends, colleagues, and students and will be greatly missed.In addition to his parents, Thomas was preceded in death by his sister Joan Silvia.Thomas is survived by his wife Essonia; his sons, Tom and wife Kelley of Shreveport, LA, and Bob and wife Lana of Jackson, TN; and his brother, Jim Silvia of Little Rock, AR. Thomas is also survived by his seven grandchildren Will, Callie, Alex, Aaron, Lindsay, Sophia, and Isabella and his great-grandson, Noah.Serving as pallbearers are Will Silvia, Alex Silvia, Aaron Silvia, Brady Carpenter, Lucas Wigal and Nate Hall. Honorary pallbearers are Franklin James, Jerry Milan, William Giles, Dr. Kenneth Newman and Jose Pernia.The Silvia family will receive family and friends on Friday, October 20, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Bells Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, October 21, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of the Bells Funeral Home with Bro. Brent Lay officiating. Burial will follow at Marlowe Cemetery, Gadsden, TN with Full Military Honors.Bells Funeral Home, 5342 College Street, Bells, TN 38006, is in charge of arrangements. For more information, please contact (731) 663-2766 or visit www.bbfuneral.com.