Della Jean Silva

If I have done anything in life worth attention, I feel sure that I inherited the disposition from my mother. —Booker T. Washington

Obituary: Life of a sweet soul

Della Jean Silva (née Sherman), 68, entered eternal rest peacefully surrounded by her two sons and closest family on Friday March 27, 2026, in Monterey, California. Born on February 18, 1958, to her parents Lupe Gloria Rojas and Ronald William Sherman at San Benito County Hospital in Hollister, California, Della lived a life filled with love, faith, and devotion to her family and community.

Della was a multigenerational lifelong resident of Hollister and San Benito County, where she attended Sacred Heart Parish School and later graduated from San Benito Joint Union High School--class of 1976. She pursued two years of further education at Gavilan College during the later 1970s before embarking on a career that showcased her dedication and work ethic. Della served for many years as a Superior Court Clerk for San Benito County and concluded her professional career as a General Office Clerk at PacSci EMC ending in April of 2020.

A woman of deep faith, Della was baptized on April 8th 1962, which contributed to her strong ties to the Roman Catholic Church throughout her life. Her spirituality was a guiding force that shaped her values and relationships. She was known for her unwavering love for her family and her ability to bring people together. Whether it was a backyard barbecue, a birthday celebration, or any special occasion, Della’s presence was the heart of every gathering. Her usual sendoff carried forward from her mother, “Love you, God bless you.”

Della found immense joy in spending time by the ocean with her children and loved ones, particularly in Santa Cruz and Watsonville area. She cherished attending local arts and crafts shows in San Juan Bautista and festivals such as the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival. Her love for classic car shows and horseback riding reflected her adventurous spirit. Shopping trips with her mother, grandmother, and sisters at department stores were treasured moments that highlighted her close-knit family bonds. Della had a deep passion for music, including the golden era of soul music in which she grew up listening to Motown legends like Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, and The Supremes. Her favorite song was Always and Forever by the Heatwave.

Della is survived by her two beloved sons, Rudy A. Silva and Jordan R. Silva; her siblings Julie Casarez (Eddie), Melody Sherman, Ronald Jr. Sherman (Maria), Amy Freitas (Louie), and Toby Sherman. She was preceded in death by her father Ron W. Sherman (November 2017), mother Lupe G. Sherman (March 2006), grandmother Helen D. Colgan (July 2006), and brother Patrick T. Sherman (February 1995).

Della’s legacy is one of love, loyalty, and warmth—a proud mother who embraced life’s simple joy, persevered through life’s adversity, and brought light to those around her. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.

"There'll always be sunshine when I look at you...Always forever love you."

Love you, god bless you Mom...
Reverentially your sons, Rudy & Jordan

Gallery: Everlasting memories

Additional photos can be viewed via google photos. Please share any photos you have of my Mom, Della below

Memory Wall: A special place to remember

Favorites: A sons observations

Memorial Service: A gathering of life and love

Donate: A cause worth fighting for