Pioneering Distributor in Northeast Passes

John Sylvester, who founded Sylvester Electronics in Rhode Island in 1976 passed on Sunday at the age of 81.

He is credited with being a pioneer of car audio in the Northeast, launching his distribution company at the dawn of the car audio market.  Those who knew him said he was a hard worker with a kind heart.

The business was truly a family affair, including sons Bob and Tom who eventually took over running Sylvester Electronics.  Jaqueline, wife of Sylvester for 58 years, was also part of the company.

“He was instrumental in marketing this industry not only for Rhode Island but for all of New England,” said Sylvester’s Russ Tamberelli, adding, “He was a kind, warm-hearted guy. The business was his life. The house he raised his family in became the Sylvester Electronics office and the distribution center; he got the house next to it too. That’s been the place of operations for almost 50 years.”

A funeral for Sylvester will be held Friday, May 21 at 9 am at the J. J. Duffy Funeral Home, 757 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI.  Visiting hours start today, May 20, 2021, from 6 pm to 8 pm.