Fall River Durfee grad known for her volunteering and serving on multiple notable boards has passed away

A Fall River native known for her impact on the community throughout the Fall River area has died.

85-year-old Gayle Velozo passed away on Wednesday.

According to an obituary, “Gayle was a graduate of Durfee High School and was a longtime and devoted member of Church of the Ascension, now Church of the Holy Spirit on Rock St. in Fall River where she served faithfully on the vestry for many years. Gayle was extremely giving of herself and her natural ability to help others led her to volunteer her time at numerous local organizations. Gayle was a well-respected volunteer at the Hope House and the Church of Our Saviour Soup Kitchen in Somerset. She also served on the boards of Habitat for Humanity and Heritage State Park.”

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a time of visitation on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 4-7pm in the Hathaway Home for Funerals, 1813 Robeson St., Fall River.

Her funeral will be held on Wednesday, May 6th at 9am from the funeral home followed by her Funeral Service with Requiem Eucharist at 10am in the Church of the Holy Spirit, 160 Rock St., Fall River.