Joe Neves passed away suddenly at home on April 9, 2026, at the age of 78.
Joe was the loving and devoted husband and best friend of Alcina Neves. He was a proud and loving father to Lino Neves & Andrea Jongman of Kitchener, Dianne & Billy Lopes of Massachusetts, and Joe & Lisa Neves of Molesworth.
He was an extremely proud Vovô to Dezirae (friend Dylan) and Vanessa (friend Trayton) Neves; Jaydin (friend Grace) and Julia Lopes; and Kaden, Emmett, and Tyson Neves.
Also left to cherish his memory are his siblings: Maria Rita Borges (late husband Joe Borges) of Listowel, and Pureza Melo (husband Paulo Melo) of Terceira, Portugal and many nieces and nephews.
Born in Terceira, Azores, in 1947 to Jose and Rita, Joe served in the army before meeting the love of his life, Alcina. Together, they immigrated to Canada in 1973, where they managed tobacco fields in Delhi before settling in Listowel in 1989 and purchasing their first home—a milestone Joe remained deeply proud of throughout his life.
Joe spent his working years at The Murray Group, where he treasured both the work and the friendships he made. He found the greatest joy tending to his yard and his famous fig trees. His happiest moments were when his house was full, surrounded by family, sharing food, laughter, and time together. A longtime and devoted member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Joe’s faith remained an important part of his life and gave strength to his family.
A dedicated member of the Portuguese community, Joe devoted many hours to preserving the traditions of back home. He will be deeply missed by the many friends within the Portuguese community and by the neighbours of Riverview, who became his daily companions—whether stopping by the yard for a visit or coming in to share a glass of his well-known homemade wine.
Our family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Barb Mathews and Dr. Rex Warren. As neighbours and physicians, you went above and beyond to guide Joe and Alcina through every health challenge they faced, always present with compassion and care, including at the end.
Joe was a kind, grateful, and deeply loved man. He was a constant reminder to slow down, savour life, and appreciate even the smallest moments. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation was held at Eaton Funeral Home, Listowel on Monday, April 13 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. with prayers at 5:30 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, Listowel on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.
Interment in Fairview Cemetery, Listowel.
Memorial donations to Listowel Memorial Hospital Foundation would be appreciated.
Online condolences may be left at www.eatonfuneralhome.ca
