Mary Joseph Mello

Lakeville – Mary Joseph Mello — age 92 of New Bedford —passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at the Island Terrace Nursing Home with her family by her side. She was the loving wife of the late Alfred E. Mello and the daughter of Rose and Manuel Rapoza.



Mary was born in New Bedford where she lived all of her life. She was a store manager at The Fashion Barn clothing store until her retirement.



She gave freely her time, energy, love and compassion to her children and grandchildren. She was a special kind of woman who committed herself entirely to her loved ones.



Her family includes her 3 children: Janice Bateman, and her husband, Craig, of Rochester, David E. Mello and his wife, Charlotte, of Mattapoisett, and Steven E. Mello of Johnston, R.I.



She is also survived by her sister Sophie Gomes of New Bedford; 7 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Frank Rapoza.



Her funeral will take place on Thursday beginning at Perry’s Funeral Home at 8 A.M. and continuing at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 9 A.M. Burial will follow in St. John Cemetery. Visitation will take place in the funeral home on Wednesday from 5 – 8 P.M. Arrangements placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth St. in New Bedford, MA.



A special thanks to the staff at Island Terrace Nursing Home and to the hospice service provided by Compassionate Care.