Jeffrey Arnold Souza

Jeffrey Arnold Souza, affectionately known as Jeff, passed away on August 2nd, 2025. Jeff was born on August 13th, 1970 in Turlock, CA to parents Leroy (Punky) and Rosemary Souza and was a lifelong resident and beloved member of the Hilmar community.

As a young boy, Jeff began working with his father for the family’s dairy. Throughout his life, he sought to deepen his relationship with Christ, even if it meant having his daily quiet time listening to the Bible in a tractor while feeding cows or chopping corn. He served Hilmar First Baptist Church for more than 20 years, devoting his talents to the worship team, acting as the sound director, and quietly attending to any odds and ends needed to make sure everything ran smoothly behind the scenes. He was always the first to arrive on Sundays, he would check on church members, water the plants, brew the coffee, set up chairs, etc. There was nothing he wasn’t willing to do to serve others. He continued his service by answering God’s calling for him to become a pastor; he faithfully led the congregation for over 3 years. In his free time he enjoyed watching soccer, playing video games, and, most of all, going to the mountains to worship God and His creation.

Jeff’s life was guided by an unwavering love for God and for his family. He married the love of his life, Jennifer Souza, on July 2nd, 1994. Together they raised three beautiful daughters, Miranda, Mariah, and Makayla. He loved goofing around with family and carried with him an air of joyful mischief. Jeff will be remembered for his singular humor, compassion, grace, and the profound impact he had on the innumerable lives he touched. As he lifts his voice in worship above, his spirit will continue to bless and inspire us here below.

Jeff will be forever remembered by his loving wife of 31 years, Jennifer Souza; his children Miranda Souza, Mariah Carrasco (David), Makayla Souza-Wiggins (Daniyel); his mother Rosemary Souza and his sisters Shelbey Horstmeier (Duane), Ashley Lima (Jeff), and Lindsey Oliveira (Michael). He also leaves behind many more family members and friends who will miss him deeply. Jeff is now reunited with his father Leroy (Punky) Souza in heaven.

The celebration of life services will be held at Hilmar Covenant Church on August 13th, at 10:00 am. 20056 American Ave, Hilmar, CA 95324.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hilmar First Baptist Church or to a charity of your choosing