David M Botelho, 73, of Westport Ma, husband to Isabel M. Botelho, passed away on Wednesday, February 21st, 2018. Born in Capelas, Sao Miguel, Azores, he was a son of the late Manuel and Mariana (Miranda) Botelho.

David immigrated to the United States of America in 1968. He came with the dream and drive to build a better life, not just for himself, but for his entire family. David proudly became an American Citizen, built his own home, and worked every day to fulfill the dream that he had set for his family. He was a laborer and mason until his retirement.

David loved gardening, walking, playing cards, making wine and watching the soccer games. You could always find him outside in his yard caring for his garden, grape vines, plants, fruit trees and flowers. He also enjoyed sitting in the outdoor kitchen watching the Benefica game or out at 5am walking with one of his best friends. Most importantly David loved his family; he would always say "There is no greater gift that he could receive than the gift of being all together".

Isabel M Botelho, 72 of Westport MA, wife to David M. Botelho, passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2018. Born in Capelas, Sao Miguel, Azores, she was the eldest daughter of the late Guilherme and Angelina (Soares) Rego.

Isabel also immigrated to the United States of America in 1968 and together, they began their dream to become American Citizens and worked hard in order to provide their family with a better life. Isabel worked as a seamstress in the textile mills in Fall River, until her retirement.

Isabel loved cooking, baking, knitting, singing and praying with the elderly at local nursing homes. It brought her so much joy to have all of her loved ones together eating the meals that she had prepared with so much love for them. Her other joy came from giving to those who were less fortunate or for those who felt like the world had given up or forgotten them. She would spend time with those who just needed someone to listen or someone to pray with or for them.

David and Isabel were devout Catholics who believed strongly in their faith and also were a shining light to those who may have lost their faith along the way. They were former parishioners of Our Lady of Health Church until its closing. David served as the Sacristan for many years. He also served as a lector, Mordomo, and Treasurer for the Parish Feasts. Isabel was in the church choir, belonged to The Sisters of The Rosary and donated much of her time to helping the church in any way, from cleaning the rectory and church to cooking and conducting fundraisers. Both were now active parishioners of Espirito Santo Church where David served as a lector and Isabel sang in the choir. Both also attended Charismatic Mass every Wednesday evening, and dedicated themselves to helping others in a time of need. Never passing judgement on anyone, instead they opened their ears and hearts to them, always giving more to others then they ever expected to receive.

David and Isabel also loved to fish. They could be found by the edge of the ocean from sunrise to sunset with their family who were their best friends. They believed that faith and family were the two most important things in life. They were the true example of what family is and how true love for one another will forever bond you. They will always be remembered as loving, warm, hard-working, funny, faith-driven people. Once you entered their home you were and would always be considered family.

They leave behind so many heavy hearts beginning with their children: Rita Botelho, Odette Botelho, Nelson Botelho, Michelle Botelho and Granddaughter Taya Wulff.
David leaves behind siblings: Gabriel Botelho, Miguel Botelho, and Connie Sousa. He was also the brother of the late Leonilde Braga who also passed with them on 2/21/18 and Manuel Botelho who passed on 2/17/18.
Isabel leaves behind siblings: Venilde Cavaco, Antonio Medeiros, Eduarda Ferreira, Gilda Souza, Eusebia Lowery. She was also the sister of the late Libby Medeiros.
They are both leaving behind many brother and sister-in laws and nieces and nephews who loved them dearly.

We as a family leave with the comfort of knowing that the love they had was so rare and true that God made sure they  would stay together forever.

Their Funeral Mass was celebrated together with Leonilde Braga on Saturday, March 10th, in Espirito Santo Church followed by their committal at Notre Dame Cemetery. The family of Mr. and Mrs. David Botelho would appreciate that, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in their memory directly to Espirito Santo St. Vincent de Paul Society, 311 Alden St., Fall River, 02723.