James Aloysius Mello, 88, of New Bedford died March 21, 2019 unexpectedly at home.
He was the husband of the late Gertrude T. (Brennan) Mello, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage. James was devoted to taking care of his wife in the comfort of their home for several years.
Born in New Bedford, son of the late Manuel P. and Helen C. (Dury) Mello, he lived in New Bedford all of his life.
Mr. Mello was a dedicated and hard worker his whole life. He looked for perfection in everything he did. He started off delivering newspapers at Sacred Heart home as a kid. Mr. Mello then worked at Giusti's Bakery before joining the U.S. Navy serving during the Korean War aboard the U.S.S. Dortch destroyer 670 as a cook. He received an award from his captain for keeping the cleanest kitchen. He proudly wore his U.S.S. Dortch hat everyday. Mr. Mello then was employed as a first class journeyman splicer technician and repairman with New England Telephone company for 34 years until his retirement. He was a great man that truly did things his way. He gave insightful advice and experienced truly incredible events during his service in the U.S. Navy.
He was a member of the I.B.T.W. and I.B.E.W. Unions.
Mr. Mello was an active communicant of St. Mary's Church in New Bedford. Jim was devoted to God attending Mass every week and as he got older, he would attempt to walk to church.
He was a graduate of Holy Family High School, class of 1948 where he was a great basketball player and also played baseball.
Jim's favorite saying was "I'm getting older everyday." He enjoyed going to various restaurants and socializing with anyone and telling jokes. Jim knew almost everyone wherever he went. He would help others but would not want any help in return.
Survivors include his children, Susan (Mello) Gallup and her husband David of Seekonk, Brian Mello of Las Vegas, NV, and Sharon (Mello) Young of New Bedford; his brother, Thomas Mello of Milford, MA; his aunt, Sister Marian Teresa Dury, M.M.; his grandchildren, Taylor, Jeremy, and Bridget Young, Hannah and Matthew Gallup, and Allison Mello; a brother, Thomas Mello and his wife Kathy; his long-time friend, James Faria; and nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was the brother of the late John Mello.
His Funeral will be held on Wednesday, April 3rd at 9 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by his Funeral Mass at St. Mary’s Church, New Bedford at 10 AM. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday, April 2nd from 4-8 PM.