Hercio Maria das Neves Campos

Hércio Maria das Neves Campos was born on October 25, 1953, in Laclubar, son of Manuel Ângelo Pires de Oliveira Campos and Edviges Sequeira.

He was one of six siblings: Fernando Campos, Guy Campos (deceased), Manuela Campos, João Campos, and Maria José Campos. Among his siblings, Hércio Campos was one of the middle children, maintaining a strong family bond throughout his life.

He grew up in Dili, in a simple family environment.

From childhood, he stood out for being responsible, hardworking, curious, and respectful. His childhood memories were marked by playing with friends, supporting his family from an early age, and the experiences he had at school.

Hércio attended the Professor Silva Cunha Technical School in Dili between 1967 and 1969, where he completed his secondary technical studies up to the 2nd year. Later he continued his studies at the Francisco Xavier Private School.

During his adolescence, he was known for his spirit of friendship and solidarity, discipline, good humor, and dedication to his studies and family. He maintained strong ties with childhood friends, actively participating in social life.

Music also played an important role in his youth. Between 1972 and the following years, he was a vocalist and played bass in the musical bands Acadêmico, Bealuli, and Lords, demonstrating a passion for music from an early age.

In his youth, he began his professional life in different fields, gaining experience through administrative work, commerce, and business. He stood out professionally for his dedication, responsibility, discipline, and entrepreneurial spirit.

During the Indonesian occupation, Hércio Campos also played an important role in supporting Timorese people involved in the resistance and families seeking safety outside of East Timor.

In Jakarta, along with his cousin and close friend Mr. Júlio Alfaro, he received the trust and mission assigned by Commander-in-Chief Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão to assume responsibilities in supporting Timorese people leaving East Timor for Bali and Jakarta, helping to avoid persecution and detention by the Indonesian authorities.

He also played an important role in supporting and guiding Timorese people to Macau, working in coordination with entities and members linked to the Macau Government, facilitating logistical support, reception, and assistance to those seeking protection.

His actions during this period were marked by a sense of solidarity, courage, and commitment to the Timorese people, discreetly contributing to supporting many compatriots during one of the most difficult moments in East Timor's history.

He met Ana Carrascalão in Dili during the 1970s. Later, they married, sharing many years of life together and building a family.

From this union were born their children: Holdérico Campos, Bebé Campos, Hércio Campos, Nino Campos, and Heglise Campos, maintaining a strong family bond throughout their lives and playing an important role in each of their lives.

As a father, he was demanding in love, caring, and inspiring. She transmitted to her children values ​​such as respect, discipline, honesty, and the importance of family.

Starting in the 1980s, Hércio Campos became an entrepreneur, excelling in different areas of business and investment, building over the years a career marked by entrepreneurial vision, dedication, and a strong presence in the private sector.

Throughout his professional life, he was involved in various business projects, being recognized for his leadership skills, initiative, and commitment to economic and social development.

As a prominent businessman, in 2010 he was elected President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) of the Dili District, a position he held between 2010 and 2014, leading initiatives related to economic and business development and the strengthening of the private sector in Timor-Leste.

In the last years of his life, he also began to dedicate himself to the hotel and tourism industry, demonstrating an interest in the growth of the tourism sector and the development of hospitality-related infrastructure.

Even in recent years, he remained active, following new projects, supporting business initiatives, and sharing his experience with family, friends, and business partners.

After the restoration of East Timor's independence, Hércio Campos actively participated in various political and party activities, maintaining his interest in national development and contributing to the political and democratic life of Timor.

Over the years, he remained present in political and social initiatives, closely following the challenges and growth of East Timor as an independent nation.

Hércio Campos will be remembered as an upright man, a loyal friend, a respected figure, and an example for his family.

He was known for his great solidarity with family, friends, and all those who needed support. Throughout his life, he always sought to help others, maintaining a generous, humane, and people-oriented attitude.

He had a welcoming spirit and was also known for his good humor, his simple manner, and the positive way he interacted with everyone around him.

The values ​​that marked his life were family, honesty, work, and respect. Among his greatest tastes and passions were music and family life.

In recent years, he dedicated himself especially to his family, grandchildren, spending time with friends, and personal and business projects. He continued to be a role model for his children, nephews, and friends.

Family gatherings, celebrations, and moments of sharing became even more important during this phase of his life.

10. DEATH

Hércio Maria das Neves Campos passed away on May 4, 2026, leaving a profound mark on the lives of his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

His departure represents the farewell to a man whose life was marked by work, dedication to his family, friendship, and entrepreneurial spirit.

The family also expresses its deep gratitude to the Fatuhada family and Mrs. Odete dos Reis de Araújo, who stood by Father Maun, Hércio Campos, accompanying him with friendship, affection, respect, and dedication.

A special thank you to all those who cared for him at various times in his life, demonstrating presence, human support and solidarity, contributing to his well-being and comfort.

To all, the family expresses sincere recognition and eternal gratitude.

The memory of Hércio Campos will remain alive through the teachings he left behind, the stories he shared, his love for his family, and the example of life he transmitted to everyone around him.

He will always be remembered with longing, respect, gratitude, and affection.

Thank you for everything, Dad.