DEMELO, Olivia Demelo

Beloved wife of the late Alfredo DeMelo (1991). Loving mother of Lorena Demelo and Mariete De Melo Grilo (Paulo). cherished Avo of Armani, Giselle, Tatiana, Zander, and Lucas. Dear sister of the late Filomena Marques, Armando Rebelo, Albina Paz Ferreira, Carlos Rebelo and Conceicao DeMelo. Maria Olivia’s remarkable journey began when she immigrated to Canada as a young, single woman. She arrived knowing no English, but through determination and perseverance, she taught herself by sounding out every word she read. She soon became an advocate for the Portuguese community, offering her voice and translations to many who were finding their way in a new country. She later returned to Portugal, where she married the love of her life , Alfredo. Together, they returned to Canada to begin their new life, working tirelessly to build a better future for their family. For many years, Olivia worked at Omstead Foods, and beyond her work, she was a constant pillar of support for her family, friends, and community. Her children, Lorena and Mariete were her greatest joy and deepest source of pride. She devoted her life to nurturing them with unconditional love, guiding them with patience, wisdom, and a quiet strength that never faltered. Olivia celebrated every milestone of their lives with a heart full of gratitude. When she became Avo, her love grew even greater. Armani, Giselle, Tatiana, Zander, and Lucas were the light of her life, (even her fur babys and companions, her cherished, best friend, Buster and Pongo, little Miley and Guardian and companion Nico). Her presence will remain a guiding force in their lives, reminding them of the love that will always surround them. Olivia lived a life devoted to giving. She was a natural helper, always ready to lend a hand to those in need. She loved to bake, and her kitchen was always filled with the aroma of something delicious in the making. Creative and artistic, she enjoyed sketching, drawing and crocheting-her doilies and bedspreads were works of beauty crafted with love. In her younger years, she was known to sing joyfully along the cobblestone streets of her beloved Faial da Terra, Azores, Portugal, where she was born and raised. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. With unwavering devotion to Senhor Santo Cristo, she placed her worries, prayers, and trust in His miracle countless times. Her selflessness was evident in the countless hours every November, she baked not only for her family, but also friends, neighbors, and her parish community, offering her gifts of baked goods in memory of the souls of the deceased. Olivia was known as a peacemaker. Her home in Wheatley became known as the Portuguese Tim Hortons”, where neighbors, friends and family would gather daily for coffee, conversation, and her famous Portuguese biscuits. She created a sense of belonging and community wherever she went inspiring those around her with remarkable spirit. Even while facing her own health struggles, Olivia’s generosity and kindness never wavered. She continued to give, to care, and to inspire those around her. She never let her hardships overshadow her devotion as a wife, mother, and grandmother. Her legacy is one of selflessness, kindness, compassion, and faith. She was an extraordinary women whose love knew no limits, and whose light will continue to shine most brightly through her children and grandchildren-the treasures of her heart.

“There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, the light remains” – Author Unknown

Visiting at Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington on Friday 3-7 p.m. and on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at St. Michael’s Parish, 29 Elliott Street, Leamington from 9a.m. until time of the Mass of the Resurrection at 10 a.m. Entombment Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made by cheque to Erie Shores Hospice.