Joanne Margarite Pereira

Born on January 15, 1946, in Modesto, California, Joanne was the daughter of Joe and Mary Mello, both proud immigrants from Terceira Island in the Azores. She was raised in Gustine, California, where she spent her early years on her family’s dairy. At age 10, she moved to Merced when her father and brother partnered in a dairy on Mariposa Way, where her lifelong ties to the community deepened.

In 1964, she met the love of her life, Richard Allen Pereira, through her cousin, Lynn. They married on May 14, 1966, beginning decades of love, partnership, and devotion. Though we grieve her loss, we find comfort in knowing she is now reunited in Heaven with her beloved Richard, as well as her parents and her brothers, Joe and Albert Mello, who preceded her in death.

Joanne dedicated 45 years to a career in banking, but her greatest title was Mom and Va. She loved her daughters, Trishann Freitas (Rodney) and Barbra Rowe (Richard), with her whole heart. Her grandchildren — Brooke, Tori (Justin), Paige (John), Bailey (Jeffrey), John, Logan, and Jenna — were the light of her life. She was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Emma, Kade, Rhett, Ellie, Walker, and Gracie, who brought her immeasurable joy.

A faithful member of St. Patrick’s Parish and Our Lady of Mercy, Joanne’s Catholic faith guided her throughout her life. It shaped her values, strengthened her during life’s trials, and was woven into the way she loved and cared for her family.

She was known for her famous taco salad, her love of red, white, and blue, and her fondness for anything plaid or nautical. She cherished her annual beach trips with her cousins and her treasured cabin getaways, where laughter filled the rooms and memories were made year after year. Whether gathered around a table, at the beach, or celebrating with family, she created a home wherever she was.

Joanne leaves behind a legacy of unwavering love, deep faith, and fierce devotion to family. Her hugs were warm, her prayers were constant, and her presence was a steady source of comfort and strength. While our hearts ache, we hold tightly to the promise of eternal life and the joy of knowing she has been welcomed home.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church in Merced, followed by the Rosary at 11:00 a.m. and Funeral Mass at 11:30 a.m. A reception will follow at the Italo-American Lodge in Merced.

Flowers may be sent to Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, 1490 B Street, Merced, CA 95341. Donations may be made in her honor to the Kevin & Brian Nannini Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 523, Merced, CA 95341.

She was our heart. Our Va. And we will love her forever.