Augustine Sousa Jr.

Augustine P. Sousa Jr. "Gus" 75, of Bristol passed away Friday, June 27, 2025. Born and raised in Bristol, of the late Augustine P. Sousa, Sr. and Lauretta V. St. Laurent.

He graduated from Bristol High School in 1967. He enlisted in the Army, despite having deferments and was highly decorated, receiving two bronze stars, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Infantry Badge (Tet 69 counter offensive) as a 2nd Lieutenant in The Vietnam War 25th Infantry Div., 38th Platoon (leader) Scout Dog Handlers (Chu Chi).

Gus was a master with Composites and spray paint work, working at Merrifield-Roberts where he helped fabricate Spoonbridge and Cherry, the signature piece in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden at the Walker Arts Center, for what would become both one of the most iconic pieces of public sculpture of the twentieth century and one of the most famous landmarks in the Twin Cities. Gus also worked on art projects for Roy Lichtenstein and met the artist on several occasions.

Gus, along with his son, were part of the last-minute attempt to design and fabricate a "Winged Keel" for the Stars and Stripes syndicate defending the America's Cup. This keel was put on a practice boat, the 12-Meter Defender, (US 12-33) in order to figure out what would be feasible for the race boat Liberty for the 1983 defense against Australia II "The Race of the Century" The work was done at Herreshoff Yachts in Burnside St, and was part of a continuous family history of over four generations (more than 100 years) of their family being involved with Herreshoff Manufacturing Co. and the America's Cup.

Gus is survived by his children, Augustine Sousa III and his wife Ann of Salem Ma.; Lisa Ann Alofsin, and her husband Barry of Wakefield, R.I.; Jennifer Moss of Providence; Lori Cochran of Bristol, Emilly Sousa of Bristol; Katherine DeMelo and her husband Michael, of Warwick, and his stepdaughter Lisa Souza and her husband Mark, of Ma. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Samuel, Annie, Liberty, David, Tyler, Samantha, Andre', Cameron, Faith and Isabella and great-grandson Colton.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, brother and wife Lorraine Sousa (Stanton).

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Graveside Service with Military Honors on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 1:00 PM at St. Mary's Cemetery, Chestnut Street, Bristol.

For obituary, online condolences, and directions please visit www.sansonefuneralhome.com