Elaine F. Nearpass of Tiverton went to join her son Jeff in the presence of the Lord on April 14 after a valiant struggle. Her heart never gave up but her body could not contain her spirit any longer.

Born in Fall River, she was the daughter of  Mrs. Susie (Motta) Farias and the late Antone Motta and was predeceased by her son, Jeffrey P. Goncalo.

Elaine was a graduate of the former Sacred Heart Grammar School and B.M.C. Durfee High School, both in Fall River.

While raising her children, Elaine was very active as a volunteer in Tiverton as a member of  the Garden Club, PTO, TEMPO, and Meals on Wheels.  She was a commissioner for the Tiverton Housing Authority.

She had a deep compassion for all living things, especially children and animals.  She was very active in the Acoaxet Chapel  and had found a loving church family there, where she was the pastoral assistant and could be counted on to visit and take Communion to the sick, provide compassionate pastoral care and give hugs and support wherever needed.   She also was an avid sports fan following the PawSox, Red Sox and the New England Patriots.

Elaine  had been employed  at Brown University and previously at Edgehill Newport and the Newport Navy Base.

She is survived by her loving husband, Christopher Nearpass; her mother,  and cherished son James J. Goncalo of  Spring Hill, Florida.  She also leaves a sister, Geraldine L. Gomes and her husband Richard of  Ft. Mill, SC; and a brother, Robert A. Motta and his wife Patricia of Huntersville, NC.  There are many nieces and one nephew. She had many great-nieces, and two  great-nephews.  She is also survived by her lovable cat, Andy, who was her constant companion.  (Mrs. Nearpass was formerly married to James C. Goncalo.)

A  Celebration of Life will be held at the Acoaxet Chapel, 36 Howland Road in Westport, at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 27; relatives and friends are welcome to attend.  At her request, there will be no visiting hours.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Diabetes Foundation, the Heart Association and to The Acoaxet Chapel.

Arrangements are with the Pocasset Memorial Funeral Home 462 Main Road, Tiverton.

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