Francisco Rodrigues Silva, who became a fixture of Christmas celebrations in South Florida’s Brazilian community as “Papai Noel,” died early Wednesday, Nov. 4, in Boca Raton. He was 92.
The role began as a joke. At a holiday gathering among friends, someone said Mr. Silva looked like Santa Claus, and the host invited him to wear the red suit the following year. He accepted, and the tradition grew over the decades into a highly anticipated part of community Christmas events.
Born in Brazil, Mr. Silva immigrated to the United States in 1992 and later became a naturalized citizen. He worked for local moving companies before taking up the Santa role full time. A singer and actor by temperament, he appeared often in local community newspapers, and his holiday calendar was typically booked through Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
He also worked with the Rotary Club West Boca on community outreach projects. The Boca Raton Toy Drive called him a “dear friend” and a figure who brought joy to many families, saying his presence will be deeply missed.
Mr. Silva is survived by three children and extended family in Brazil. A memorial fund has been set up through GoFundMe to help his family.
