Photo courtesy of Manning-Heffern-O’Neill Funeral Home - Pawtucket
Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Jose F. Ornelas, 74, of Pawtucket, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, February 18, 2026. He was the beloved husband of Maria Fatima (Teixeira) Ornelas. Born in Madeira, Portugal, he was the son of the late Joao and Maria (deCaires) Ornelas.
Jose was a devoted New England sports fan, but his #1 sports team without question was Benfica. Soccer brought him joy. He was a man who showed his love not in just words but countless ways. Above all he cherished his family. He was endlessly proud of his children and grandchildren, attending games, events and milestones whenever he could. He taught those around him the importance of loyalty, hard work and values. His greatest love is his family and having everyone over for Sunday lunch.
Besides his wife, he is survived by his children, Fatima Ornelas of Pawtucket and her partner Todd Graham, Linda A. Ethier and her husband Jason of Pawtucket, and Grace Mayben and her husband Joshua of Cumberland. His four grandchildren, Lauren Ethier, Jared Ethier, Cameron Mayben, and Andrew Mayben. He is also survived by his sister, Isalina Ornelas. He was the brother of the late Sister Lourdes Ornelas, Joao R. Ornelas, Sister Maria Ornelas, and Heliodora Ornelas.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Funeral Service on Friday, February 27 2026 at 10:30 AM in the Manning-Heffern-O’Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage Street, Pawtucket. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery, Cumberland.
Visiting hours are on Thursday February 26, 2026 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM in the Manning-Heffern-O’Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage Street, Pawtucket.
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Fatima my heart goes out to all of you. I’m sorry I never made the wake as I’m just seeing this. May he rest in peace as he’s now home and will be watching over all of you. My most sincere condolences for your loss. God’s peace.❤
Carmela Emerson
February 27, 2026 | North Providence, RI | Friend
I am deeply and sincerely sorry for the loss of your father. A father may pass on but his thoughts, hopes and dreams live on in us. Remember the amazing life he lead and how much he loved you. I’m very sorry for your loss.
Laura (Becker) Landry
February 26, 2026 | Lincoln, RI | Family
We are so sad to hear of our uncles passing. Our heart goes out to tia Fatima and all our cousins. May he rest in eternal peace. Love your neice Linda Nugent and family
LINDA TEIXEIRA-NUGENT
February 25, 2026 | Mississauga, ON | Family
Sending our condolences to you all. My you rest in peace Tio Jose.
With Sympathies
Louie Ornelas and Fred Scates
Luis Ornelas
February 22, 2026 | Hickory, NC | Family