William “Billy” Couto (93) of Brockton passed away on February 20, 2026, at the West Roxbury VA Medical Center.
Born on September 29, 1932, in New Bedford, he was the son of the late Joseph Couto and Mary (Mello) Couto, both natives of São Miguel, Azores. Billy was a proud first-generation American who deeply loved his country.
At a young age, his family moved to a farm in Acushnet, where he learned the value of hard work. One of seven children — two boys and five girls — Billy helped with the demanding responsibilities of farm life alongside his brother.
Billy developed a lifelong love of music early on, often joking about singing to the pigs on the farm. At age 16, he discovered ballroom dancing at Lincoln Park and quickly fell in love with both dance and performing. As a young man, he also enjoyed boxing after church on Sundays.
In 1954, Billy proudly served his country in the United States Army, stationed at Fort Dix, Fort Meade, and Camp Drum.
Music was his true passion. Living by the belief that “you never work if you love what you do,” he later formed his band, Billy Couto and the After Hours. The band became highly successful and well-known throughout New England, bringing joy to many through their performances.
Billy was a wonderful son, brother, father, partner, and friend who touched countless lives. He was known for his humor, humility, charm, and handsome nature — a true gentleman and an inspiration to all who knew him.
He was the brother of the late Edward Couto, Dorothy Warburton, Irene Arruda, and Lorraine Collingham. He is survived by his sisters, Evelyn Gauthier and Marylou McCarthy; his children, Joanna Couto, Diana (Couto) Kelly, Joseph Couto, and Kimberly Couto; his son-in-law, Joseph Kelly Sr.; seven grandchildren, Joseph Kelly Jr., Veronica Kelly, Olivia Stear, Mario Couto, Stephen Davis Jr., Julius Davis, and Amorah Ferreira; his great-grandson, Joseph Kelly III; many nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends; and his longtime partner, Aurora Perry.
Billy will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Visitation will be held in the Home of Funerarias Multi Culturel, 238 Court Street, Brockton, on Sunday, March 8th from 5:00–8:00 PM.
A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, March 9th at 10:00 AM at Union United Methodist Church, 600 Highland Avenue, Fall River. Viewing will take place at the church from 9:00 AM prior to the service.
Burial will follow at Massachusetts National Cemetery, Connery Avenue, Buzzards Bay