Joseph Botelho

Joseph Correia Botelho, "Joe", was suddenly called home to "Eternal Life" on September 9, 2026. 

He will be remembered for his giving nature and the earnest desire to help others. This early ambition to serve led Joseph to join the Franciscan Friars where he continued learning and growing in-step with the values of St. Francis of Assisi.

Joe stayed with his Franciscan Brothers for the next 25 years, moving where he was needed and serving professionally in the leadership positions of financial administration and teaching school. Joe's desire to get his master's degree led him to Fordham University where he graduated with a master's in social work in 1997.

Following a two-year internship, he proudly obtained his clinical licensing in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Joseph became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and over the next 20 years he worked and eventually retired from Trenton Psychiatric Hospital. Still wanting to serve, Joe continued working as a part-time Clinical Psychologist with Psychology Associates in Yardley, PA.

Joseph was pre-deceased by his parents Jose Correia Botelho and Maria (Galant) Botelho, his sisters Sophie (Botelho) Mello and Mary (Botelho) Butler.

He leaves behind his loving spouse Paul Johnson, his dear sister Natalie (Botelho) Sheffield, and several cousins, nieces and nephews.Joe grew up in New Bedford, MA and also spent many cherished holidays and vacations with Aunt and Uncle and cousins in Newport, RI. He graduated from Bishop Stang High School, Class of 1970, Dartmouth, MA, he received his AA Degree from Bristol Community College, his BA Degree from Catholic University in Washington DC, and graduated from Fordham University with a master's in Social Work.

Honoring Joseph's request, a simple graveside service is to be held at St. Columba Cemetery 465 Browns Lane, Middletown, RI, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 9:30am with Father Richard Wilson presiding. 

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation honoring Joe's life to any of the following: ASPCA, Doctors Without Borders, Save the Elephants, or your own favorite charities.

Perry Funeral Home is kindly sharing the obituary on behalf of Joe's family.

Arrangements that are under the care of the FitzGerald-Sommer Funeral Home 17 S. Delaware Avenue Yardley, PA 19067. Condolences for the family can be left at www.fitzgeraldsommerfuneralhome.com.