Mr. Joseph Arruda Mello, age 96, of High Street, Bristol, died Wednesday, May 16, 2018, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Mary Adeline (Sousa) Mello, his wife of 68 years.

Born in Fenais de Ajuda, Acores, he was a son of the late Manuel Arruda Mello and Rosa deMelo Claudina. During World War II, Joseph served in the Portuguese Army. Joseph was a machine operator for the former Carr-Fulflex Co., formerly in Bristol for many years, retiring in 1984.

He owned and operated Mello Landscaping Company, Bristol, now continued in operation by his son. Joseph was a communicant of St. Elizabeth’s Church and a member of the Santo Cristo Club in Bristol. He was an avid gardener and loved soccer and was a lifelong Benfica fan.

In addition to his wife, he leaves four children, Mary Mello Brown (Warren) of Bristol, Fatima Mello of East Providence, and Joseph A. Mello (Ann) and Margaret “Peggy” Murgo (Kenneth), both of Bristol; six grandchildren, Lindsey Brown McLravy (Charles), Kenneth T. Murgo, Kyle J. Mello, Tyler J. Murgo, Danielle A. Mello and Tianna L. Murgo; and his devoted caregiver, Clara Gonsalves.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Maria Gabriela Sousa Mello, and seven siblings.  Funeral services from the Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood St., Bristol, were Monday, May 21, 2018, with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Elizabeth’s Church, 577 Wood St., Bristol. Burial followed in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Chestnut Street, Bristol.  Memorial contributions may be made to the RI Chapter APDA, P.O. Box 41659, Providence, RI  02940 or online at www.apdaparkinson.org/community/rhode-island  For online condolences, shared memories, information and directions go to www.sansonefuneralhome.com