John Lello - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

One thing is certain—He is calling you, calling you to give your all.
—John Lello

Passed away on November 26, 2012 in Papua New Guinea

A Message from Pam Lello:

Dear family and friends,
After returning to the states and attending the memorials and funeral, we are presently staying at the AFM Training Center in Michigan.

We would like to thank all of you for your prayers and support during this difficult time. The Lord is so good and we have so much to be grateful for.

A few months before the accident our computer crashed making it difficult to communicate. However, with a new email address we will once again be able to correspond.

Thank you again for all your prayers, financial support and encouraging words. God bless you all.

Pam, Abby & Alissa Lello
pamabbyalissalello@gmail.com

LELLO MEMORIAL FUND
• If you wish to assist the Lello family, you may send a check or money order marked “Lello Memorial Fund” and send it to Adventist Frontier Missions, PO Box 286, Berrien Springs, MI, 49103. If you wish to transfer funds electronically, please call AFM at 269-473-4250 and we will provide the routing numbers necessary to make a deposit.
(Please note: If you donate to both the Lello Memorial Fund and to AFM as well, please make out separate checks. Funds designated Lello Memorial Fund are personal gifts and are not tax deductible.)

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In Loving Memory of John Lello, 1966-2012

The Lello family joined Adventist Frontier Missions (AFM) in November 2009, accepting a call to live among the animist AMA people along the Sepik River and raise up a Seventh-day Adventist church among them that would bring the Gospel to the entire tribe. The Lellos completed their fundraising and launched to Papua New Guinea in March 2012.

John Lello died on the afternoon of November 26, 2012 in an accident while felling trees near the site of his AFM mission project in Papua New Guinea's Sepik Province. Please surround his family in caring and prayer--especially his wife, Pam, and their two girls, Alissa and Abby.

Stephen Combe who picked up the family from May River shared this observation (From comments on ANN news story): “I had the sad but great honor of picking up Pam and her daughters from the May River. There were so many villagers who wanted to pay their respects to John and Pam. His body had been lovingly wrapped and flower petals garlanded his casket. The girls were given flower garlands too. Such a sad time and yet Pam gave a very moving and courageous speech of hope before she boarded the helicopter. The whole village joined in prayer for her and the girls, for the SDA ministry in the Ama tribes and for the remembrance of John to always honor his commitment to Jesus and his love of the Ama people.”

Tributes

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December 13, 2012

Dear Pam and children, we were saddened to learn of your loss.Kako church in upper mazaruni, Guyana, prayed for you.

December 13, 2012

Pam, Alissa and Abigail, I want to praise God for the determination and courage you have to touch the lives of others with the Love of Christ. the seed you have shown will be harvested when He comes. May His providence be with you all.

December 12, 2012

Hi Pami! As I look at the pictures of your family, I can see love and happiness in your faces.Your girls are beautiful. I pray that God will fill the hole that has been left behind, with hope and strength to endure, and everything else that you need. His ways are not our ways. And that there is a bigger story going on that what we can see. I pray for God to use this for His glory. Big hug!

December 11, 2012

Blessings to the Lello family and extended loved ones. I am so glad to have read about all of the wonderful work the LORD allowed the Lello's to do in God's vineyard. I am deeply saddened and crushed for Pam and the girls. They will forever remain in my heart and prayers. So glad to know that John lived the Light, and made his calling and election sure.

December 11, 2012

My heart is heavy and aches for you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Words cannot express the sadness that we feel for your loss. Stay strong in your faith. God will never leave you.
Love and Prayers, Gary, Karen, Gary, Jr., and Aubrey

December 11, 2012

Pam & Girls, I'm so sorry for your great loss.; I;ve wanted to write to you since John;s death. but I didn;t know how to get in to write. Pam I;ve known you since you were born. My heart aches for you. I hope by this time you will be home with loved ones. My prayer is that the Lord will lift you up in his arms the next 3 weeks. My love to you your cousin Lois

December 10, 2012

Dearest Pam, Abby and Alissa,
Sending up many prayers for you. Have a safe trip back to the US. Elijah & Caleb send their love to the girls and pray that Jesus will hold them tightly and shower them with kisses. Thinking of you all daily, especially Pam. *Many, many hugs*

December 8, 2012

As Jobs friends could not speak for a week when they came to see him, I just can not think of more comforting words for you and the girls tho' I will support your family in this time.

December 8, 2012

Having worship tonight and came across this message for you:

May the Lord send an angel ahead of you to guard you along your way and may He bring you to the place He has prepared for you. (Exod 23:20 NIV). Looking forward to seeing you and Abby and Alissa ... Soon!

December 7, 2012

Dearest Pam & precious Abby and Lissa, Granny and Graddad still find it so hard for you to return home with out your Daddy. We weep with you and feel deeply for our loss, but we are so thankful for your continuing loving ministry for Our Lord Jesus to the people of PNG. We look forward to your return and long to hold you in our arms. Praying for you many times daily. "Jesus comfort them."

December 7, 2012

Our hearts and our prayers and go out to you at this time.

Richard and Betty

December 7, 2012

Dearest Pam, Abby and Alissa. Me and my parents have been profoundly moved by the news of John´s passing and have been praying for you ever since we heard. I remember John as both a leader and a humble learner: an extraordinary combination. You have a family in Holland and the larger AFM family that is deeply moved by your hurt and journeys with you in heart and prayer. You are not alone.

December 7, 2012

It was my privilege to meet your family last year. My heart is broken with grief, and goes out to you everyday. I know that John was precious in the sight of the Lord. Right now we are experiencing the valley of grief, but the best is yet to come-God will wipe away every tear from our eyes, and Christ will make all things new! I love you, and you are in my thoughts and prayers.

December 7, 2012

My sweet gentle, lovely Pam,

I scream with pain for your loss. May God who has been acquainted with grief find a way of comforting you. May you find the strength to live on enveloping yourself in the Rock of Ages.
Much love Seka

December 7, 2012

Pam, Abby & Alissa,I have read & reread the tributes for your family. I have looked at the pictures & cried, smiled & yes even laughed when I saw your Dad with his beard for the first time! I know he would like that! He would of laughed with me, wouldn't he? Thank you sharing your Dad & husband with us during this time of loss and healing- We love him too! Love, hugs & prayers

December 6, 2012

Dear Pam, Abby and Alissa, It was with much eagerness that I followed your progress to launch on this endeavor. My heart was with you, rejoicing as you reached your goals, warmed with reports of your experiences along the way, and now in sorrow over your loss. My prayer is that you will feel the arms of the Lord around you at this time and His presence closer than it ever has been.

December 6, 2012

Dear Pam, Alissa and Abigail, Our hearts ache with you. We cling to the promises of God: " ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.” Revelation 14:13.
Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus, Come!

December 5, 2012

Dear Pam, Abby and Alissa, my heart breaks for you girls ever since last Monday morning when I heard the news about John. He was so excited and passionate about going to PNG. I enjoyed each update we received since you all arrived there last spring. I'm glad to have known John for a few years on "the hill" in Kentucky. Much hugs and prayers. keep in touch.

December 5, 2012

My Dear Sister and Nieces, My heart is heavy for each of you but especially for you Pam. You have always been my strong and aventuresome sister and now that strength is be tested as it never has. I love you guys and I wish there was more I could do to comfort you and take away some of your pain. I look forward to putting my arms around you. John was a tremendous man and example!

December 5, 2012

May the Lord bless you and keep you in your dark hour.
May the Peace of God grant you healing, and dry your tears.
May the Love of God shine warm and bright in your life.
For God's children, death is only a temporary parting......
You and your family are in my prayers.

December 5, 2012

It's so hard to know what to say. Time has gone by and my heart still aches for my friends...John, a friend from BMA, who showed such Christianity and put others before himself; Pam, also from BMA, who has always been special to us; and Alissa & Abigail, new friends I hope to meet soon. God be with you in your loss. We hold you up to God daily. Lovingly, Sherry Aumack Reppert & family

December 4, 2012

Dear Pam, Alissa and Abigail,

Words can hardly heal the pain in moments like this. Just know that you are in our prayers and thoughts every day. Let's continue the walk to meet our Jesus and get reunited with our beloved ones soon.

December 4, 2012

Pam, Alissa and Abigail, my heart was so torn when I heard of your loss of your husband and daddy. I am still aching with and praying for you. Thank you, girls, for your giggles and greetings from the treehouse on Three Angel's Drive. I will always remember you. You are in my prayers.

December 4, 2012

Pam, Alissa and Abigail, My deepest sympathy and prayers for you. John was a hero, a great dad, husband and person. I have cried many tears for you. May you find comfort in our Lord during this hard time.

December 4, 2012

It was such a privilege to meet John, Pam, Alissa, and Abigail in Bethleham, PA SDA Church the summer of 2011 and be a part of their love for God's extended family in Papau, New Guinea. What a precious family! I love ya'll and will be in contact. You are loved with an everlasting love. Your heavenly Father will bind up your wounds and heal your breaking hearts.

December 4, 2012

Dear Pam and little ones my deepest heart sorrow goes out to you.
Praise God you have the blessed hope and will see John again
never have to part eternal life together with Jesus. Praying for
you. Sister Marge Gal.

December 3, 2012

Precious wife Pam, much loved daughters Alissa and Abigail: Such a shock that seems unreal to imagine and the pain goes deep and the tears flow from an aching broken heart. Such a hero and the memories of his loving dedication and sacrifice will last through a lifetime. His legacy will inspire and be a model to us all now and always. New appointments for us all at the Eastern Gate!

December 3, 2012

To the Lello family: Both John and his sister Lois were students at BMA. They were mature and dedicated beyond their years. Thanks to loving committed parents. John always the kind polite gentleman with a sincerity and devotion to His Lord that would last until his last act...death from a tree. His hope always from the One who died on a tree. Someday soon we will eat from the tree of life

December 3, 2012

To the Simpson family: I will always cherish the memories of your family at BMA. Pam was chosen by God to be a partner who would share a unique vision of hope and promise with John. They went to be with those they called "our people" and were willing to sacrifice their lives for their chosen family. Our hearts ache with you and
rejoice in the legacy and memory of their unspeakable gift.

December 3, 2012

My heart is aching from the news I heard just this morning. Knowing John at BMA, was to know someone who loved life, loved his Lord, and made all of us who knew him, better people. Pam and the girls, please know that we not only have the hope, but I believe the assurance, of spending an eternity with your wonderful dad and husband. Until that time, God bless and sustain you!

December 3, 2012

Dear Pam, Abby, and Alissa,
I just wanted you to know how much you are on our hearts and how much we grieve with you. We are praying for you daily--even little Kristi is praying for you. I feel so blessed to be your friend and I am so grateful for the years that we shared as neighbors. I am really looking forward to seeing you in a few weeks. We love you.

December 3, 2012

Dear Pam, Alissa, and Abbey. Our hearts are broken for your little family. May God hold you close to His heart during this time. We will plan to come over to Liberty to the memorial service on December 20. Your family and ours has always been intertwined . . . you are in our thoughts and prayers. Please know that our home is open always! Love and hugs.

December 3, 2012

Dear Pam, Alissa and Abigail; Bunky and I are so sorry for your loss. Scott and Sheri, too, were just staggered by it. Please know that we are praying for you through this difficult time. We hope that Jesus will come soon! May God comfort you and draw you close to Him. Love, Ellie

December 3, 2012

We are lost without John and his enthusiasm to serve the Ama people of the Sepik. Our prayers are with Pam, Alissa and Abigail. With you, we look forward to that great reunion with Jesus! We know John will be there.
Much love in Jesus!

December 3, 2012

I have had the priviledge of working with many outstanding teachers. John was one of the best.His talent and dedication were exceptional. His greatest gift as a teacher and in all his ministry to others, was the reflection he gave of his Lord and Savior. John and his family have been a tremendous team for Christ!

December 2, 2012

We are shocked and so saddened by this tragic loss. When John was in college he was friends with our son, Robb Price, and John and his sister, Lois came to spend a school vacation with our family in Utah.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you. With Love, The Richard Price Family

December 2, 2012

Pam, I'm praying that God will give you the emotional and physical strength you need during this horrible time of grief...I'm sure it's difficult to keep going. God still has a plan, even though we can't see or understand it now. My heart goes out to you, as I do understand better than some, what you're going thru. May God comfort you and give you His peace. Love, Toni

December 2, 2012

We first met John and his lovely family about a year ago at the Harrisburg, PA SDA church. John preached that day. We were so impressed with this family. You could see that they were true christians. They dressed like a real christians should. You could the the love of Jesus in their faces. My the memory of John and his family and the work they have done live on. See you in Heaven.

December 2, 2012

I met Mr. Lello at a church Christmas function in KY. We had a meal and shared about the overseas mission field. Two things that I learned about him that night: 1.) He was a generous, goodhearted fellow faithful to His Lord; 2.) He loved his family and was willing to do anything to keep it healthy and happy. I was blessed to meet him and Kristina and I are praying for the family!

December 2, 2012

Dear Pam, Alissa and Abigail, we have followed your mission since you were at the Charles Town, WV . We love and pray for you every day. I also lost my husband suddenly 13 years ago. I know something of what you are feeling. I'm so glad AFM is dealing with you so kindly. You still have a mission-God will never leave you, but will show you the way. We'll be here for you if you need us.

December 2, 2012

My Dearest Pam, and darling missionary grand children, Abby & Lissa,The sorrow & pain have been SO great. The tears & prayers have flowed from my heart for you. God is using hundreds of loving email postings to begin an amazing healing process for us. I thank AFM for all they have done to comfort & support us. Lets make a plan to meet Daddy at the TREE OF LIFE. REV. 21:1-4. Love,Gran

December 2, 2012

At this time of great sorrow--may you feel the comfort of Lord with you. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers and although we don't know the reason for such a tradegy, we will carry on with faith. The next moment John will know, will be the moment he was reaching out to tell everyone about. The coming of the Lord will be a glorious time.

December 2, 2012

Dear Pam, Alissa & Abigail, the sudden loss of John has deeply saddened me. Words are inadequate to offer comfort in your time of grief. But, we serve a God who knows, cares and aches too! May you feel His strong and tender arms around you and His warm shoulder - a soft place to fall. With prayer for peace, comfort and "hope that burns within our hearts" - what a grand reunion!

December 1, 2012

A blessing of courage as you return to visit the Ama

May the Sovereign Lord be your strength! May He make you as surefooted as a deer and may He bring you safely over the mountains. (Hab 3:19
May the Lord your God take hold of your right hand and may you hear Him say to you, “Do not fear; I will help you.” (Isa 41:13 TNIV)

December 1, 2012

Dearest Pam
May God make you strong and bold, may you not be afraid of the unknown, nor of risks, nor of your enemies nor the enemies of God, for Adonai your God goes with you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you. (Deut 31:6 CJB)

December 1, 2012

Dear Pam and the girls, Words can not express the saddness that we all feel when we heard of the passing of John. You and your family are in our prayers. John's passion to follow Jesus were ever it lead has left a legacy that will not be forgotten. May you feel the comfort and peace of Jesus and may the Lord come back very soon is my prayer.

December 1, 2012

Dear Pam, Alyssa and Abby, when we sat at our dinning table with you and John and listened to John explain your desire to serve the Lord among the AMA people, we were touched by your faith and sacrificial spirit. We are without words over this tragedy. You are all very dear to us and will remain in our hearts always. May God ease your pain.

December 1, 2012

Dear Pam, Abby,& Alissa,
We were so shocked & saddened to learn of John's death. We've shed tears & can't begin to imagine what you must be going through. Praying for you multiple times throughout the day. I'm glad Laurie & her family were still in POM and were able to help you.
Our condolences go out to the rest of John's family,too.

December 1, 2012

Pam and girls. there does not seem to be one moment that we do not think about you. We wish we could wrap you in a giant hug that would take away the pain but only Jesus can. Know that you are loved so very much. We have had your picture on our frig and will continue to pray. It was an honor and privilege to work with John and to call him our friend.

December 1, 2012

Dear Pam, Alissa and Abigail, I am so sorry for the loss of your dear husband and father. Sometimes it's hard to see through our tears. But even when you cannot see, God has promised to be there loving you, strengthen you and giving you what you need to face each day. God will hold you close and see you through because you are precious to Him. Trust His heart. Love, hope and prayers.

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Recent Tributes

November 26, 2023

Dear Pam, Alissa and Abigail,

Praying your hearts are safely held in the Hands of He Who is coming soon! What an amazing day that will be when all four of you will be wrapped in the arms of our Savior! Come soon Jesus!

November 26, 2023

John was such a humble, caring person. I pray for the 'Lello girls' every day. John will be so pleasantly surprized when wakes up to see the women he left when girls. May we all look forward to that day.

November 26, 2023

We praise God for what He has done for John's family. The girls have grown up into very lovely young ladies and Pam has always been busy working for God. God has blessed them and they have stayed faithful, waiting patiently for the day when they will all be reunited, never to part again. I believe that day is very near. May we all be ready.

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