Joseph Mello

Joseph Mello, 92, of Brandywine, Maryland passed away peacefully among his beloved family on August 30, 2023. Joe was born on February 11, 1931 in Lawrence, Massachusetts as the third of seven children to the late Joseph and Hortense Mello. He spent his youth playing sports, partaking in the occasional bit of mischief and working odd jobs in and near his hometown before joining the Navy in 1948, an adventure that would bring him to ports of call throughout Western Europe and the Mediterranean aboard the USS Columbus (CA-74), a heavy cruiser in the Sixth Fleet. One night in 1949, while stationed in Washington, DC, he met Peggy Hansher at a roller-skating rink, whom he married and remained his bride for the remaining 71 year of his life. Subsequent to his honorable discharge from the Navy in 1954 as Boatswain’s Mate Second Class, he embarked upon a career with The George Washington University. He began working in the Grounds Department while also pursing studies in landscaping, eventually working his way up to Director of Grounds and Parking. He held the title of Director of Parking until his retirement in 1994. Outside his work at GWU, he owned his own landscaping business, maintaining notable properties such as the American Institute of Pharmacy Building in Washington, DC, The American Red Cross building in Arlington, VA, and the personal gardens of members of the Marriott Family. Joe was an avid golfer throughout his life and continued to play well into his eighties. In his leisure time, he also enjoyed playing cards with friends, spending time with family, and watching sports, particularly his beloved Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. He was a member of the American Legion in La Plata, MD for over 30 years. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother Robert (Lucille) and Bernard (Joan) Mello: sisters Teresa (Anthony) Gouveia, Eleanor DelleChiaie and Margie (Tom) Goad: and his grandson Travis Richards. He is survived by his wife Peggy Mello (Hansher): brother Vincent Mello: daughters Cheryl Richards, Sandra (Richard) Wayman and Debra Labrozzi; grandchildren Zachary (Jennifer) Richards, Megan Labrozzi and Jessie Labrozzi; great-grandchildren Emily and Daniel Richards; and multitude of nieces and nephews. He will be laid to rest at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery later this month in a private ceremony. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Hospice of the Chesapeake, who provided immense comfort and support to Joe and his family during his final days.

Joseph Mello

February 11, 1931 - August 30, 2023