A Sad Announcement Regarding Dianne Rebelo
The Executive Board of NEMFA is sad to report that long-time beloved colleague Dianne Rebelo, Choral Director at South Kingstown High School, South Kingstown, RI passed away Friday in the Memorial Hospital, Pawtucket.
Quoting from her obituary in "The Providence Journal" on 7/5/2008:
"She was employed by the South Kingstown School Department as a choral conductor and music teacher for 27 years. She conducted award winning choirs from South Kingstown all over the east coast. Her choir 'eSKape' won the highest awards at several jazz festivals including Berklee. Dianne was a past president of the Rhode Island chapter of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), and was current president of the Rhode Island Music Educators Association.
"Besides her beloved mother, she leaves her three brothers, Gary Rebelo of Cumberland, Dennis Rebelo of Wakefield, and Joe Rebelo Jr. of Sacramento, CA; four nephews, Michael Rebelo of Florida, Dennis Rebelo of Wakefield, Anthony Rebelo of Sacramento, CA, Nicholas Rebelo and Tanner Rebelo both of Cumberland, and one niece Emilie Rebelo of Sacramento, CA. She also leaves two great-nieces and two great-nephews.
"Her funeral will be held Monday at 9 AM from the J. J. Duffy Funeral Home, 757 Mendon Road, Rt. 122, Cumberland. Mass of Christian Burial at 10 AM in the Our Lady of Fatima Church, Fatima Drive, Cumberland. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. Calling Hours will be held Sunday, 4-8 PM. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1 Albion Road, Lincoln, RI 02865. Directions/Guestbook: jjduffyfuneralhome.com."
From long-time colleague David Neves:
"Dianne had been battling cancer for some time. Dianne was one of Rhode Island's finest music educators and was a strong leader in the state working diligently to improve music education, especially choral music education, for all students. Her work and dedication to improving the audition process for RIMEA choral groups was second to none. She was a longtime member of MENC/RIMEA and was proud to be elected and serve as RIMEA President.
"She was one of Rhode Island's finest choral educators who was able to give her students the most incredible of all choral experiences. Dianne's performing ensembles were second to none. She was truly a gifted music educator. Most importantly, Dianne was a wonderful human being who enjoyed life and always did her best to care for others. She will be sadly missed, yet fondly remembered."
She was a great teacher and colleague and the members of the New England Music Festival Association, Inc. will miss her very much.
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