Captain Ernest Botelho

Captain Ernest Botelho, USMC ret. reported for duty at Heaven’s Gate just before sunrise on Thursday, April 15, 2021 after fighting a courageous battle with Parkinson’s.  

Ernie was born the youngest of six children to Joseph & Emily Botelho on June 24, 1935. He graduated woodworking trade school and soon after enlisted in the USMC. As career Marine Capt. Botelho, a proud “Mustang”, held many positions & performed numerous duties in the service of our country. 

After being stationed up & down both the East & West coasts until he finished his commitment to the Corp in 1974 he began a successful new career with one of his first loves carpentry.  A master carpenter he started both Spotsylvania Home Improvement and later Ernie’s Woodworking. 

Ernie had an extensive two car garage HO scale model train layout that was featured in the FLS and that he delightedly shared with so many area residents. 

The Botelho’s of Sharp Street in North Dartmouth are now all together again as Ernie joins his parents and siblings. He is survived by the love of his life of 62 years, Rosa Lee Childers Botelho; daughter Phyllis Pleasants (Bill); sons Joseph Botelho (Jennifer) and Michael Botelho; seven amazing grandchildren/great-grandchildren who brought him so much happiness Karly Silkensen, Billy Pleasants, Samantha Botelho, Zac Botelho, Jessica & Caitlyn Silkensen, and Logan Pleasants; and his service dog, Taco. 

The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 22 at Covenant Funeral Service, Fredericksburg.  A service for the most devoted husband and amazing father will be at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, April 23 at the funeral home.  Interment will follow the service in Quantico National Cemetery.