LOWELL Neli (DaSilva) Melo, 88 of Lowell, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was the wife of Henrique Bettencourt with whom she shared the last 68 years.
She was born on October 9, 1935 in Graciosa, Azores, Portugal and was a daughter of the late Manuel Melo and the late Olivia DaSilva. She spent her early years in Graciosa, where she received her education and started her own family. In 2011, she relocated to the United States to be closer to family.
Neli was a devoted member of St. Anthony Church and found joy in the art of crocheting. However, her greatest pleasure came from the moments spent with her beloved family.
In addition to her husband, Henrique, she is survived by her daughter, Olivia Bettencourt and her husband, Heliodoro of Lowell; her grandchildren, Lilia Chan and her husband, Dara of Lowell, and Raquel Bettencourt of Lowell; her two great grandchildren, Kayla Chan and her companion, Miguel, and Alex Chan; and her great-great granddaughter, Valerie
She is also survived her sisters in law, Etelvina Santos of Lowell, and Fatima Bettencourt of Graciosa; and many nieces and nephews including her God children, Maria Nazare and Maria Do Carmo.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her son, Oscar Bettencourt; her siblings, Maria Edite, and Artur Melo; and her mother and father in law, Vitalina and Manuel Bettencourt, as well as her brothers in law and her sister in law.
On Wednesday, April 17, 2024 all are welcome to attend her calling hours from 8-10 a.m. at McDonough Funeral Home, 14 Highland Street, Lowell. Her funeral mass will be offered at 11 a.m. at St. Anthony Church, 893 Central Street, Lowell. Burial at St. Patrick Cemetery. Please find us on facebook or visit www.McDonoughFuneralHome.com to leave the family a message of condolence at any time.