Manuel M Souza Jr. born July 26, 1934 passed away peacefully in Palm Harbor, Florida at Suncoast Hospice on September 13, 2021. Sam, as he was known by, was loved by many and will forever be missed.
Sam’s younger years were spent growing up in Westport Massachusetts with his parents Evelyn and Manuel and his dog Duchess. He served in the National Guard in 1955, 1958, and he was Honorably Discharged in 1961.
Sam worked as a shoe buyer for Nerbonne and Florsheim shoes. He was later the manager in the shoe department at Silversteins.
Sam met and married his love Leonila (Linda) in 1964 and had one daughter, Melissa.
Sam was a stubborn New Englander and loved Massachusetts. He enjoyed gardening and keeping up his pristine yard. Everyone always complimented on how beautiful his landscaping looked.
In 2019 Sam and Linda moved to Palm Harbor, Florida to an Independent Living facility to be closer to their daughter and her family. Sam enjoyed the activities and dining that their new home had to offer. Everyone knew of him and his joking sense of humor. He especially enjoyed being closer to family and had a special bond with his grandson Jacob.
Sam will always be remembered as a devoted husband of 57 years, a supportive father, proud grandfather, a strong man who never gave up and who always pushed himself. He will always be remembered as a character to all who knew and loved him.
Sam is survived by his wife Leonilda, daughter Melissa, son in law Eric, and grandson Jacob.
Rest In Peace Sam, Dad, and Parka you are able to walk again.
His graveside service will be held Friday, October 8th at Notre Dame Mausoleum in Fall River, Massachusetts at 12:30 P.M. All are welcome to attend. Arrangements were held under the direction of Manuel Rogers Funeral Home, 1521 N. Main St. Fall River, MA 02720. To send the family expressions of sympathy, please go to www.rogersfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers please make donations in Sam’s memory to the Parkinson’s Foundation www.parkinson.org