Lilian de Mello

Lilian “Lili” de Mello passed away on April 25, 2026, at Garden Isle Healthcare in Līhuʻe, Hawaiʻi. Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the kind and compassionate GIHC staff for the love, care, and comfort they shared with Lili.

Lili was born on November 4, 1950, in Montevideo, Uruguay. During a visit with family on Kauaʻi, she fell in love with the island and made it her home. Inspired by its natural beauty, Lili became an award-winning fine arts photographer whose work beautifully captured the energy, light, and breathtaking landscapes of Kauaʻi.

In recognition of her artistic talent, the Hawaiʻi State Foundation on Culture and the Arts acquired two of Lilian’s silver gelatin photographs for the Art in Public Places Collection. Lili’s creative and expressive spirit lives on through her beautiful images and in the hearts of all who loved her.

Zoë Mou, Sas Agapo

The “Mokumanamana” panel of the Ka Pae ʻĀina O Hawaiʻi Nei Hawaiian Archipelago Mosaic Mural is dedicated to Lilian. Sponsored by the Garden Island Arts Council, public viewing of the mural is anticipated to begin on June 8, 2026, World Oceans Day, at Wowoni Point near the historic Kīlauea Lighthouse. For the most current information, please visit gardenislandarts.org

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Lilian de Mello, please visit our Tree Store.