Souphan Deignan

Souphan Deignan, 62, of Lowell, MA passed away on March 3rd, 2026 at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, MA after her hard-fought and courageous battle with leukemia.

Souphan was born on December 15, 1963, in Huay Xai, in the province of Bokèo, Laos. Souphan's life was defined by her immense courage; she escaped Laos in search of a better life and to avoid persecution by the Pathet Lao government. In 1980, she lived in a refugee camp in Thailand for approximately three and a half years before moving to the Philippines for six months to learn English and to learn about American culture. She arrived in the United States in 1984, settling in Lowell, MA, where she lived with her family for the remainder of her life.

Upon arriving in America, Souphan stayed with her sister's family where she helped around the house, babysitting her nephew, and working at the family grocery store. She was a woman who worked tirelessly and committed herself fully to everything she did. Shortly after her arrival, she found the love of her life, Robert Deignan, whom she married on November 28, 1987, at The Elks on Old Ferry Road.

A devoted professional, Souphan worked for the Lowell School Department for over 30 years. Much of her career was spent at the Morey School as a Paraprofessional for preschoolers. Her dedication was recognized in 2016 when she was awarded Paraprofessional of the Year. In the classroom, she nurtured compassion, selflessness, and attentive listening. She understood the importance of structure, helping her students grow into balanced and thoughtful individuals.

Her love for her community extended to the school grounds. An avid gardener with a legendary "green thumb" inherited from her father, Souphan volunteered countless hours at the Morey School to tend the gardens and plant flowers along the entrance, creating a welcoming space for students and staff. At home, she spent every summer day in her garden. One of her proudest moments was growing a sunflower that reached half the height of her house.

When she wasn't gardening, Souphan was often in the kitchen. Food was her love language. She took great joy in cooking for others, always ensuring everyone else was fed before herself. The love and care she put into every dish was evident to all who sat at her table.

Souphan was a woman whose heart overflowed with devotion for her family, friends, and anyone fortunate enough to know her. Her presence was a steady light, a source of comfort, warmth, and unwavering love. She made kindness and sacrifice look natural, inspiring that same light in everyone she encountered.

Souphan is predeceased by her father Kham Chantharak, mother Chansouk Chantharak, and brother Bounkong Chantharak. She is survived by her husband, Robert Deignan II; her sons, Robert Deignan III and his wife Jenna, Bernard Deignan and his wife Ashley; and a granddaughter expected in April 2026. She is also survived by her brothers, Bounpheng Chantharak, ChanPhaeng Chantharak, and Vong Chantharak; her sister, Chantip Antonaccio; and their respective spouses and children.

In lieu of flowers the family asks you to please consider a donation to:

The Cam Neely Foundation at: Click here to donate online

or to:

NMDP (National Marrow Donor Program) Click here to donate online

All are welcome to attend her calling hours on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from 2–6 p.m. at McDonough Funeral Home, 14 Highland Street, Lowell.