Nidia D’Alessandro-Coelho of Shelter Island died March 30, 2026, at San Simeon by the Sound. She was 88 years old.
Born Oct. 3, 1937, in Campinas, Brazil, she was the daughter of Domenic D’Alessandro and Maria Luiza DiTuccio. She married sculptor Luiz Coelho in 1959, and the couple later moved to New York. In 1970, they visited Shelter Island and remained, building a home and studio there.
Encouraged by her husband, she began painting and developed a distinctive style, often inspired by local homes, gardens and landscapes. She completed numerous commissioned works, including a poster celebrating Shelter Island’s 350th anniversary that was displayed for many years at the former Capital One Bank and the Shelter Island Police Department; the piece is now held by the Shelter Island Historical Society. She also shared her artwork with local organizations, and her work can be seen at the Center Post Office and Our Lady of the Isle parish office, alongside pieces created by her husband. Her family said she enjoyed gardening, spending time outdoors and the friendships she built over the years.
She was predeceased by her husband in 2006.
Arrangements are being handled by the Shelter Island Funeral Home.
