Joseph Souza, Jr.

Joseph Souza Jr., 74, of Fall River, passed away on Monday, June 16, 2025, on his wedding anniversary, at home surrounded by his family.

    He was the loving husband of Alice (Brown) Souza, to whom he had been married for 55 years.

    He was born in Fall River, son of Wilhemina (Medeiros) Perry and the late Joseph Souza Sr.

    Joseph dedicated the majority of his career to public service as a Park and Grounds Manager with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Management and the Department of Conservation and Recreation. He took great pride in overseeing several cherished public spaces, including Heritage State Park in Fall River, Freetown State Forest in Freetown, Dighton Rock in Dighton, and South Cape Beach in Mashpee. Later in his career, he continued his commitment to community and education by serving over a decade at Kennett High School in North Conway, New Hampshire, as the Grounds and Building Administrator. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Joseph was widely respected for his diligence, integrity, and tireless work ethic.

    Joseph found joy in life’s simple pleasures—tending to his yard, grilling for loved ones, or relaxing by the fire pit with his family. He especially cherished the winter months, when he and his son would take to the snowmobile trails of Madison County. An adventurous spirit, Joseph and his wife were always planning their next trip, often packing up the car and “hitting the road,” as he liked to say. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and loved camping, kayaking, and swimming whenever the opportunity arose. Joseph also had a passion for antique cars and enjoyed attending shows or simply admiring their craftsmanship and history. Above all, he treasured time with his family. His grandchildren will fondly remember him for his playful nature, quick wit, and the many stories he shared about Smokey the Bear—his longtime companion during his years of service in forest and park management. A devoted fan of his hometown teams, Joseph took great pride in cheering on the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots.

    Along with his wife and mother, he is survived by his children Deborah Ponte and her husband George, and Joseph Souza, III and his wife MaryBeth; his brother Ronald Souza; his grandchildren Amanda Bouressa and her fiancé Bruce Psyz, Jonna Souza, and Hannah Everett; his great-grandchildren Braylee Olivia Bouressa and Gracie Jean Psyz; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings Cynthia Laba and Richard Souza.

    A visitation will be held Thursday evening, June 19, from 5 - 8 PM at the Oliveira Funeral Home – South Main St. Chapel, 2064 South Main St., Fall River.

    His funeral will follow the next day, June 20, at 9:00 AM at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 AM at Holy Trinity Church, Stafford Rd, Fall River. Interment will follow at Notre Dame Cemetery, Fall River.