Steven J. "Poncho" Souls

Steven J. Souls, affectionately known to many as "Poncho," passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 69 years old.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Steve was the son of Donald D. Souls and the late Beverly A. Souls. He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Lisa A. Souls; his two children, Stephanie A. Souls of Bluffton, SC, and Kevin D. Souls and his fiancée, Bella Smith, of Smithfield, RI. He also leaves behind his sister Michelle Morrison and her husband James, of West Warwick, RI; and his sister Donna Donnelly and her husband, Charles "Chuck" Donnelly, of Westerly, RI; his cherished niece Mackenzie Donnelly; and nephews Matthew Morrison (wife Lisa), James Morrison (wife Kristi), Charles "Chas" Donnelly, and Andrew "Drew" Donnelly.

Steve dedicated over 45 years of his life to the hospitality industry, with a remarkable career as Director of Finance for some of the finest resort properties in the country. Most notably, he served with pride and distinction at the Ocean House in Watch Hill, RI-one of only 15 properties in the world to receive triple Forbes Five-Star ratings. Steve was a trusted leader, known for his meticulous financial expertise, unwavering integrity, and the rare ability to balance fiscal responsibility with human compassion. He was the quiet engine behind the scenes, always advocating for excellence with a sharp mind and an even sharper sense of humor.

In retirement, Steve embraced the simple pleasures: morning workouts, bike rides, swimming laps, bocce games with friends, and any chance to hear live music. His favorite artists-The Marshall Tucker Band, Charlie Daniels, and Bruce Springsteen-were the soundtrack to his spirited soul. A devoted sports fan, he lived and breathed Boston Bruins, Patriots, and Red Sox games.

But Steve's greatest joy-his truest calling-was being a father. He never missed a single hockey game or swim meet, always the one in the box keeping score or timing events with steady hands and a full heart. He didn't do it for recognition-he did it because showing up was what mattered. That was Steve. He gave constantly, quietly, and without ever asking for anything in return.

To his lifelong friends from high school and Plymouth State College in New Hampshire-especially the legendary crew from Hog Manor-Steve leaves behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and stories that will never get old (even if they probably shouldn't be repeated).

A man of few words but boundless heart, Steve touched lives in ways that numbers could never measure. He was the kind of person you could count on, the kind of man who made the world feel just a little more grounded, more decent, more real.

If you'd like to honor Steve's memory, please consider a donation to Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit close to his heart that provides comfort homes for military families during medical treatment.

Memorial services will be held at Gaffney – Dolan Funeral Home, 50 Spruce Street, Westerly, RI. Tuesday July 8, 2025 from 4pm – 6pm.

We lost a truly great man. Heaven gained a new soul-with perfect attendance and a stopwatch in hand.