Ms. Joyce J. (Mello) Cheetham, 71, of Benjamin Church Manor, 1014 Hope St., Bristol, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2016 at Backus Hospital, Norwich, Conn.

Born in Pawtucket, and raised in East Providence and Warren, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Hilda (Medeiros) Mello. Joyce was a graduate of Warren High School, class of 1964 and worked for a number of years in the production department in various jewelry manufacturing companies in the area. Joyce’s favorite thing in the world was spending time with her loving family.

She is survived by two daughters, Michelle Major (Joseph) of Deerfield Beach, Fla., and Jill Cheetham (the late Joseph F. Francis) of Warren; four grandchildren, Ashley and Joseph Benevides, and Briana and Carina Francis; a great granddaughter, Ella Lee Benevides; and her beloved cat, Bambi.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a graveside service, Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2016 at 3 p.m. in the North Burial Ground, Hope Street, Bristol. Visiting hours are respectfully omitted.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Potter League for Animals, 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown, RI 02842, or online at www.potterleague.org. For online condolences, shared memories go to www.sansonefuneralhome.com.