Jonathan M. Sellman

Jonathan Maynard Sellman was born in Dayton Ohio on December 5, 1961. He was the youngest child of Robert H. Sellman, Jr. and Lillian (Dias) Sellman. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Jonathan graduated from New Bedford High School in 1980. After graduating, he decided to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy for four years. He was part of the crew of CVN-65 on the USS Enterprise, where he worked with nuclear technology. He was a technician who helped keep the nuclear reactors operating properly. After honorably serving his tour of duty, Jonathan worked for Florida Power and Light at the Turkey Point Nuclear facility in Homestead, Florida.

Prior to leaving home, Jonathan had a beautiful baby girl, Kerri L. Santos. Only God knew she would become his primary advocate as an adult to ensure he received proper attention and care until God transitioned him.

Jonathan married Beverly Brooks while in the Navy. God sent a precious son to that union, Jonathan M. Sellman Jr.

Jonathan's friends affectionately called him Mel Brooks because of his sense of humor. It was the only name by which some identified him.

He returned to New Bedford and lived there until his struggle in this life ended. He transitioned from this life to eternal life on Tuesday February 10, 2026.

He leaves to mourn his brother, Robert Henry Sellman III, and sister-in-law, Betty Sellman of LA; his daughter, Kerri L. Santos of New Bedford, MA; his son, Jonathan M. Sellman Jr. of Oakland, CA; his granddaughter, Lariyah Santos-Morales of MA; his grandson, Jonathan M. Sellman III of CA; his loving uncle, Manuel Dias; two nephews, Robert Sellman IV and Desmond Sellman; a great-nephew, Zaylen Sellman, and three great-nieces, Nori Sellman, Evie Sellman, and Mia Sellman. his Godchild, Tamika Rose; and a host of loving cousins and friends.

His funeral service will be held on Friday February 20th at 9 AM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. Burial with military honors will follow in the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne. Visiting hours will be on Thursday February 19th from 4-7 PM. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Veterans Transition House, 1297 Purchase St., New Bedford, MA 02740.