Ellen Botelho

Waterford - Ellen (Lacey) Botelho, 74, beloved mother and grandmother of Waterford, passed away peacefully Feb. 9, 2025, after a lengthy and courageously fought illness.

Born in Norwalk, Ellen was the oldest of five cherished children of the late Walter and Ruth (Neilan) Reynolds. As the daughter of an Army officer, Ellen's childhood was marked by adventure and exploration, moving across the country with her four siblings, Kate, Andrew, Anthony and Brian. Their family's journey took them to Virginia, Oklahoma, Alaska, and New York before they finally settled in Waterford.

Ellen graduated from Waterford High School in 1968 and went on to pursue her passion for helping others, earning her nursing degree in 1971 from the Joseph Lawrence School of Nursing in New London. Ellen married Ronan H. Lacey of New London, with whom she raised two children in Waterford. In her later years, she found love again and married Maurice Botelho, with whom she shared cherished memories until his passing.

Ellen built a respected career as a registered nurse, serving the New London County community with care, compassion and dedication. Her career took her to several organizations, including Millstone Nuclear Power Plant, SCADD Detox and Hospice, with her deepest commitment shown during her many years at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. Ellen was proud to support the Joseph Lawrence School Alumni Association, where she fostered a strong sense of community and support among her peers.

Ellen's adventurous spirit led her to explore some of her favorite destinations, including the White Mountains in New Hampshire, the scenic coastlines of the East Coast, and the vibrant landscapes of Ireland, Hawaii and Portugal. She found joy in nature, spending countless hours hiking with her family and dogs at Devil's Hop Yard, Bluff Point, Waterford Beach and Harkness. Birdwatching, a passion she shared with her father, brought her a sense of peace and connection to his memory.

Above all, Ellen was a devoted mother and grandmother. Her family was her greatest pride and joy, and she treasured every moment with them. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, dining out, going to the movies and gardening in her yard. Ellen was well known for her holiday traditions and making the most delicious Christmas cookies.

Ellen was preceded in death by her husband, Maurice Botelho; and her brother, Andrew Reynolds. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Shannon Lacey Lane and her husband, Daniel Lane, of Waterford; her son, Ronan S. Lacey and his wife, Katherine Lockaby, of Mystic; her two cherished grandchildren, Emerson and Brooks Lane, of Waterford; her sister Kate Cole and her husband, Donald, of Virginia; her brother Anthony Reynolds and his wife, Cindy, of Waterford; and her brother, Brian Reynolds, and his wife, Candy, of Norwich.

A private memorial will be held for Ellen's family, with a celebration of life to take place at a later date.

In honor of Ellen's memory, donations can be made to the Purple Heart Project @ https://www.thepurpleheartproject.org

Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please visit www.neilanfuneralhome.com to leave the family an online condolence.