JOSEPH JESSE MELLO, JR.

MELLO, JR., JOSEPH J., 83, lifelong resident of West Warwick, passed away, on Sunday, June 5, 2022, at his home, surrounded by the love, comfort, and care of his dear family. He was the devoted and loving husband for 64 years to Shirley Ann (Schmidt) Mello, of West Warwick, who he married on May 3, 1958.

Born on March 30, 1939, in West Warwick, Joseph was one of four children born to the late Joseph Jesse Mello, Sr. and Laurette (Rajotte) Mello. He was raised and grew up in West Warwick.

At a young age, Joseph decided to obtain a livelihood in the trades. Having an interest in the power of electricity, he decided to pursue a career as an Electrician. After serving his apprenticeship and fulfilling the required hours of on-the-job training, Joseph obtained his Master Electrician License in the State of RI.

A hardworking man, who took pride in a job well done, Joseph was the owner and operator of Mello Electric. For many years he worked on various job sites throughout West Warwick and the surrounding communities. Joseph always treated his clients properly, completing jobs on time and always for a fair price. Following his time as a self-employed Electrician, Joseph worked for Amica Insurance at their National Sales and Operations Center in Lincoln. He had the role of Maintenance Supervisor, where he ensured all work orders and needed maintenance were fulfilled. After 23 years of working at Amica, Joseph well deservedly retired in 2000.

A reverent follower of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Joseph was a devout Catholic and parishioner at Our Lady of Czenstochowa Church in Coventry. He was a familiar face at Sunday Mass and volunteered his time and  electrical expertise for church events and including the annual Polish Festival.

As someone who always enjoyed staying busy, Joseph was very active in the community in which he lived. Joseph was a Cubmaster Pack 13 Centreville and Scoutmaster Troop 13,  and earned the Silver Beaver award for his many years of service with Narragansett Council Boy Scouts of America.  He took great pride in mentoring and educating all Scouts throughout their time with BSA. Joseph also served 4 years as a  member of the RI Army National Guard.

In addition to all his involvement in various organizations, in his spare time, Joseph was an avid NASCAR Fan enjoying watching races on TV at various tracks through the USA. Above all, Joseph was most happy when he was in the presence of and making memories with his dear family, especially his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his pet shih tzu, Angel.

In addition to his wife, Joseph is survived by his cherished children: Diane M. Angelone and her husband Dan of Warwick, Rick P. Mello of Coventry, Sandra J. Mello of West Warwick, and Joseph J. Mello, III and his wife Lisa; his siblings: Laurette T. Donovan of Coventry, George Williams of Coventry, Lisa Fierlit of Cranston, Keith Williams, formerly of Charlestown, and the late Carol Ann Denton, Gary Mello, and Harold Williams; his 6 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; and also many extended family members and friends. 

Relatives and friends are invited directly to Joseph’s Mass of Christian Burial which will be held on Friday, June 10, at 10am in Our Lady of Czenstochowa Church, 445 Washington St., Coventry, RI 02816, followed by US Army Honors. Visiting hours are Thursday evening, June 9, 2022 from 4 -7pm in the Iannotti Funeral Home at MAPLE ROOT, 2000 Nooseneck Hill Rd., (Rt.3), Coventry. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Our Lady of Czenstochowa Church, 445 Washington St., Coventry, would be appreciated. iannottifh.com

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