Ernest E. “Ernie” Mello, Jr., 59

Ernest E. “Ernie” Mello, Jr., 59, of Dartmouth, Massachusetts, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

Born in New Bedford on November 30, 1966, Ernie was the son of Margaret “Peggy” Mello and the late Ernest E. Mello. A lifelong resident of Dartmouth, he was a 1986 graduate of Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School. Ernie was employed for many years by UMass Dartmouth Food Services. 

Born with DiGeorge syndrome, Ernie faced many challenges throughout his life, but they did not define him. He found great enjoyment in the people, pets, sports, and music that were important to him.

Ernie was an avid New England sports fan, with a particular devotion to the Boston Bruins. Over the years, he accumulated an impressive collection of local sports shirts, hats, banners, and memorabilia—enough to fill a closet and room in his home. He also loved music and enjoyed following local rock bands.

Ernie had a special place in his heart for his dogs, Chippy and Missy. They were treasured companions over the years, and he continued to miss them long after they were gone.

Above all, Ernie cherished his family. He is survived by his mother, Margaret “Peggy” Mello; his sisters, Gail M. Noonan and her husband, Tom, and Susan DeGrazia; his nephews, Ryan Noonan and his wife Jessica Holden, Cameron DeGrazia, and Corey DeGrazia and his wife, Lauren; his niece, Kayley Noonan and her husband, James Young; and his two beloved great-nieces, Emilia and Abigail Young. He also leaves many cousins and extended family members.

Ernie was predeceased by his father, Ernest E. Mello.

For many years, Ernie benefited from the services and support of M.O. L.I.F.E., Inc. and Better Community Living, Inc. His family is deeply grateful to the dedicated and supportive staff who became an extended family to Ernie and played an important role in his life.

His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday October 14th at 10 AM at St. Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Rd., Dartmouth.  Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Fairhaven. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday October 13th from 4-7 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ernie’s memory may be made to Best Buddies of Massachusetts.