Francelina (Castelo) Defrias

New Bedford – Francelina deFrias, age 97, passed away on Thursday, January 17th at St. Luke’s Hospital. She was the beloved wife of the late Jorge Borges deFrias. Mrs. deFrias was the loving mother of Leonardo C. Frias, husband of Teresa, of Dartmouth, Jorge M. Frias of New Bedford, Rui C. Frias, husband of Leonor, of Dartmouth and the late Ana F. Benevides and her late husband Carlos. She is survived by 3 siblings: Jose C. Castelo, Cristiano C. Castelo and Leontina Castelo all of New Bedford; 6 grandchildren: Lynn, Christopher, Christine, Brian, Jorge and Maria Elena; 8 great grandchildren: Alexis, Ryan, Nicholas, Leah, Lucas, Quentin, Randall, and Christine; as well as several nieces, nephews and godchildren.
Francelina was predeceased by 4 brothers: Manuel C. Castelo, Joao C. Castelo, Carlos C. Castelo and Ezequiel C. Castelo.
Mrs. deFrias was born in Rosario Lagoa St. Michael, Azores, daughter of Maria (Galego) and Antonio daCosta Castelo. Mrs. deFrias lived in Rosario, Lagoa until 1960 when she moved to New Bedford. Mrs. deFrias was a dedicated matriarch to her loving family. She always presented herself well. One of her favorite activities was to going to the hairdresser. To her family and all who knew and loved her, Francelina was a beautiful woman both inside and out.
Mrs. deFrias’ funeral will be Tuesday January 22, at 8 A.M. at the Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth St. with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church at 9 A.M. Burial will follow at St John Cemetery. Visiting hours are Monday from 5-8 P.M. Family and friends are invited.