Irene A. Mello slipped away suddenly from this life into God's hands on July 26, 2023, following cardiogenic shock, just nine days shy of her 95th birthday. She was predeceased by her parents Joaquim and Maria Alves; her eight siblings; and by her husband, Rebel Manuel Mello with whom she shared 62 years of marriage.
Born in Hillsborough, New Hampshire, Irene was a resident of New Bedford for the past 85 years. She attended Normandin Junior High School but did not complete her education as she was forced to leave school to support World War II efforts as a stitcher in a textile factory where she sewed buttonholes on U.S. Army overcoats.
Some years later she married and dedicated her life to raising her three children whom she loved dearly. While busy raising her children, she also worked side by side with her husband at Waycott Supermarket, a family business where she ran the luncheonette counter before becoming a full-time stay-at-home mother. Irene eventually returned to the workforce later in life as a cashier at Shaw's Supermarket until her retirement in 1991.
Irene was the definition of a sweet and kind soul. She had a natural beauty and sense of style. She was quiet, classy, and well mannered, but her everyday personality belied her innate strength. She left an indelible imprint on those who met her.
During her earlier years Irene enjoyed gardening and spending winters in South Beach, FL. She was an avid reader and delighted in playing Solitaire and Word Scramble games on her Kindle. She played to win whenever she was challenged to a game of dominoes.
Irene was a long-time communicant of St Mary's Parish in South Dartmouth. She loved God and was guided throughout her life with a strong sense of faith.
She leaves behind three children, her daughter and best friend, Maxine Mello of New Bedford and two sons, Gary Mello of South Dartmouth and Wayne Mello of Hingham (wife, Betsy); a special niece whom she loved as a second daughter, Deborah Alves of New Bedford, and niece Donna Cabral; five grandchildren, Marguerite, Hunter, Griffin, Chase, and Hannah; two great grandchildren, Gemma and Marley; and her former daughter-in-law, Patricia Lewis.
In accordance with her wishes, visiting hours are omitted. Her Funeral Mass will be held on Friday August 4, 2023, at 10 am in St Mary's Church, 795 Dartmouth Street in South Dartmouth. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Fairhaven. In honor of Irene, donations may be made to her favorite charity Doctors Without Borders by following this link https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/make-donation-honor-someone. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.