Natalie T. DeCouto

Natalie Telles DeCouto, 91, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of September 25, 2025. 

Born in Fall River, Massachusetts, she was the beloved daughter of John and Mary Telles. It was in her hometown that she met her future husband, David DeCouto, Jr., when he gave her marimba lessons. After David’s return from service in the Korean War, they were married on October 9, 1954. 

The couple moved to Arlington, Virginia, where David began his career with the National Security Agency. They later welcomed two sons, David John and Douglas Jason. In 1970, the family settled in Bowie, Maryland, where Natalie and David made their home for nearly fifty years. The couple shared 62 years of marriage until David’s passing in 2017. 

Natalie worked for twenty-five years in the benefits department of Prince George’s Community College, where she was respected for her diligence, kindness, and dedication to both colleagues and students. Her professional life reflected the same quiet strength and grace she brought to her home and community. 

An avid reader who enjoyed tennis, Mah Jong, and bingo, Natalie brought warmth and laughter wherever she went. Since 2020, she resided at Brightview Senior Living Center in Crofton, Maryland. 

Natalie is survived by her sons David John and Douglas Jason, David’s partner Yoli, Douglas’s fiancé Samantha, as well as many extended family members and friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts. She will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and the unconditional love she gave as a wife, mother, and friend. 

A viewing will be held Thursday, October 9, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Beall Funeral Home, 6512 Crain Highway, Bowie, MD, 20715. Burial services will be held Friday, October 10, 2:30 p.m., at the Crownsville Veterans Cemetery, 1122 Sunrise Beach Road, Crownsville, MD, 21032.