Community coming together to help Bristol County family after 7-year-old passes away just before Thanksgiving

The community is coming together to assist a Bristol County family facing an unthinkable tragedy.

7-year-old Gabriella “Gabby” Botelho of Berkley passed away suddenly this week.

According to an obituary, Gabby was a second-grade student at Berkley Community School and was “a vibrant and fearless little girl whose zest for life was evident in everything she did. Whether she was racing around on the four-wheeler, helping out on the family farm cleaning stalls or feeding the animals, or swinging high into the sky while listening to music on her tablet, Gabby embraced each moment with joy and enthusiasm. She adored animals and shared a special bond with many of them. Among her favorites were her beloved dog Luna (LuLu), Belle the goat, Elsie the lamb, her cats Runny and Millee, and her cows Flower and Lana-Rae. Gabby loved spending time outdoors, making mud pies, nature soup – that she would share with the goats.”

In the wake of this terrible loss, an online Meal Train was created, and the community has stepped up. The train already has meals scheduled for the family into the middle of December. Over $10,000 has also been donated through the campaign.

Jennifer Vincent from the Berkley Board of Selectmen issued the following statement:

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a young member of our Berkley community. Our hearts go out to the child’s family and loved ones during this unimaginable time.

“If you are able, you can offer support by contributing a meal or other help via this link: https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/zgggno

“Every gesture of kindness matters.

“On behalf of the Town of Berkley Board of Selectmen, we extend our heartfelt condolences and stand ready to support the family and our neighbors in any way we can.”

Calling hours for Gabby will take place on Sunday, November 30, 2025 from 1-4PM at Crapo Hathaway Funeral Home, 350 Somerset Ave., Taunton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 9:30AM at Annunciation of Lord Church, 31 1st Street Taunton. Kindly go directly to church. Burial in Berkley Common Cemetery.