James David Mello

James David Mello, 93, of Tiverton, RI, died Wednesday at Charlton Memorial Hospital. He was the husband of Belmira "Bella" (Furtado) Mello.

Born in Tiverton, RI, a son of the late Joseph and Jacinta (Andrade) Mello. He was a life long member of the Holy Ghost Parish in Tiverton, where he served as an alter boy in his youth. For many years he served as a volunteer for the Catholic Charities Campaign, their Feast Committee and held many offices in the Holy Name Society. He and his brothers-in-law organized the annual Red Sox outing and Clamboil dinner for many years.

A three year veteran of World War II, serving in the Army Air Force of which over two years were spent in England as a Staff Sergeant in the 8th Air Force, 401st Bomb Group as a parachute rigger and repairman. He received a Meritorious Service Award, Good Conduct Medal, Bomb Group Presidential Citation Ribbon and European Theater Operation Ribbon with six Battle Stars.

In early years, he worked in the Bourne Mill as a weaver, then for 25 years at J & J Corrugated; the last 15 years as a foreman of the shipping department, retiring in 1979.

Besides his wife of 64 years, he leaves a daughter, Cynthia Wesling, son-in-law, Thomas Wesling of Tiverton; 2 grandsons, Paul Wesling (Wife Marghrita) and David Wesling (Wife Bethany); a great-granddaughter, Gianna Wesling; a great-granddaughter due in July; several godchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Manuel, Joseph and Alfred Mello, Mary Furtado, Virginia Camara, Lucy Cordeiro, Laura Leite, Beatrice Mello, Lillian Mello and Emma Monteiro.

His funeral will be held Monday at 9 a.m. from the Oliveira Funeral Home, 2064 South Main St., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in Holy Ghost Church. Interment in Pocasset Hill Cemetery. Calling hours Sunday 4 - 8 p.m.