Nancy E. Accettullo

Nancy E. (Smith) Accettullo, age 80, passed away on May 10, 2022 in the Fall River Jewish Home. Born in Fall River, she was the daughter of the late Everett and Ellen (Hickey) Smith and was a lifelong resident of the city.

She is survived by one son, Robert J. Accettullo, Jr., of Fall River; one daughter, Erin E. Alves and her husband Mark of Bristol; two grandchildren, Abigail Nancy Alves and Bryan Mark Alves; one brother Everett Smith; former husband Robert Accettullo and her loving companion, Walter Mikolazyk. In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her brother John “Jack” Smith and her cherished sister-in-law Teri Smith. She also leaves her furry companions Theodore and Molly.

Nancy graduated from Mount Saint Mary Academy in 1959 and Salve Regina University in 1964. She spent eight years as a Sister of Mercy. An Elementary Teacher, she worked in Fall River Public Schools for 40 years before her retirement in 2003. She loved her time as a teacher for kindergarten and first grade. In her retirement, she joined the Waring-Sullivan team as a receptionist and was a volunteer at the Forever Paws Animal Shelter in Fall River. A member of the Fall River Historical Society, Massachusetts Teachers and National Education Association, Fall River Education Association and Charlton Hospital Auxiliary. Proud of her Irish heritage, she also belonged to the Corky Row Club. A great storyteller, she enjoyed poetry, a good laugh and pizza night with friends.

A New England sports team enthusiast, she enjoyed watching the Red Sox, Patriots and the Celtics usually with a bag of good popcorn. She enjoyed bowling, playing bocce and country music.

Her Funeral will be held on Tuesday, May 17, 2022 at 9:00 AM Waring-Sullivan Home at Cherry Place, 178 Winter St., Fall River followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Spring St., Fall River. Relatives and friends are invited. Visiting hours Monday from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. Contributions in her honor may be made to Forever Paws Animal Shelter, 300 Lynwood St., Fall River, MA 02721. Burial is private. For directions and tributes, www.waring-sullivan.com