Adelbert (Buddy) L. Sylvia of Edgartown died peacefully at home on Thursday, Oct. 27. He was 78.

Born in Oak Bluffs, Buddy lived on the Vineyard all his life. He was the proprietor of Labelle’s Plumbing and Heating from 1964 until his retirement in 2009. He was a member and deacon of the First Baptist Church and the Portuguese-American Club. He also served as a vice commander in the flotilla for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit.

He enjoyed helping others, spending time with his family, and card nights with dear friends Paul and Cathy. His hobbies included wood carving, square and line dancing, traveling and taking car rides with his wife.

He will always be remembered as the greatest husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his loving wife Gloria J. (King) Sylvia, with whom he was one day shy of celebrating 61 years of marriage; a son, Gary Sylvia of Edgartown; a sister, Shirley Pachico of Oak Bluffs, seven grandchildren, Naylee Webster of Midlothian, Va., Marjane Hamilton of Pensacola, Fla., Bethany Haveard of Gulf Breeze, Fla., Jon Ortiz of Vineyard Haven, Gary Sylvia Jr. of Falmouth, Sarah and Anna Sylvia of Oak Bluffs; 15 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son Dennis W. Sylvia.

A memorial service will be held in his honor at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home in Oak Bluffs.