Silvestre H. Lebron, also known to many as Chico, passed away at home peacefully surrounded by family at the age of 99 on Friday, July 24, 2026. Born on December 31st, 1926, to Pedro Lebron and Fundadora Herrera in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico.

Born into a large family descended from slaves, Chico would often find himself alongside his cousins on the beaches of his hometown collecting crabs and mangoes to bring home to his family. As a child he left his early education to join his family in cutting sugarcane in the plantation fields. His first marriage was to Simona Marquez, where he had two children. He later joined the Army in time for the Korean War, spending nearly a year stationed near the DMZ. After his time in the Army, he worked as a farm laborer until he began working for General Electric where he stayed until he retired. During his time at General Electric, he met his future wife Janice Placey, whom they had 4 children with.

He spent his retirement in Vermont and New Hampshire, coming to know many of the people around him. While in the community he spent his time in faith at Calvary Baptist in Woodsville, taking every opportunity he had to share the Gospel with people he met.

He joins Janice in heaven who passed in 2016 as well as his son Peter who passed at birth in 1971. Out of many siblings, he is only survived by his brother Juan Herrera of Florida. He is also survived by his son Silvestre Jr., and daughter Esmelinda from his marriage to Simona, as well as his son Digno. He is also survived by his children with Janice; daughter Jennie, and sons Ben and Brian. He is additionally survived by several brothers and sisters-in-law, including his favorite, Penny Achilles. His legacy leaves behind many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, as well as great-great-grandchildren. He will be missed not by just his family, but by the uncountable number of friends he made throughout his life.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to a local veteran’s organization would be appropriate. Funeral services will be family attended, with a celebration of life following on August 22nd, 2026, at Groton Town Hall.