Birth date: Dec 6, 1935 Death date: Apr 23, 2016
James G. Souza, Jr. “Jim”, 80, died peacefully Saturday, April 23, 2016 following surgery at Florida Hospital Tampa. Jim passed away surrounded by his wife of 52 years, Mary, his children, grandchildren, family and friends all of Read Obituary
Mary and family, I am so very sorry for your loss of Jim. He was a treasure. We just learned of his passing. I have so many fond memories of Jim. Mailbags on Clearwater intersections collecting for MDA. Then, later on, all of us laying all over your floors, counting change to see how much Branch 2008 had collected. The momentous year that John was chosen to accompany Jim and Mary to the National MDA Telethon. Our lunch on Malibu Pier and then our "explorations." ;) The wonderful dinners that Jim would host for the members. Your wonderful family weddings. How precious your family is. Just one more thing: "No haaad butter!" and "Eat dessert FIRST!" A fond farewell to a truly special man. You will be missed, Jim.
A friend to all. I have many great memories of time spent with Jim. He was always willing to help anyone in need.. A great mentor to me. In the past years I have thought of him many times and it always brought a smile to my face. Rest in peace my friend.
John Borys
I have many memories of "Mr. Souza," as I always called him out of respect--even into my late forties. He was an exemplar of a generation, a man who spoke his mind unapologetically with the courage of his convictions. One sensed that he knew more about life and how best to live it than others. He was a traditionalist in the best sense of the word and made me recognize that a single person, if steadfast in his beliefs, could preserve sacred values even if the rest of the world opposed them. I know he was dedicated to his family, his friends, and colleagues and stood ready, as the authentic man he was, to nurture or defend them as needed.
I'll never forget the couple of golf rounds I played with Mr. Souza and his son, Jim. (He told some of the funniest jokes I'll never repeat--at least not here!) My friend Jim and I were good players in our early forties, but Mr. Souza teed up from the men's regular tees and proceeded to give us a run for our money. I think he may have won the first time we played. The second time, I needed a birdie on the final hole to edge him out. When I sank the putt, he was quick to congratulate me. His approval meant so much because he was not a man to give undeserved praise (or censure, for that matter). He was genuine and real in a world charlatans. Mr. Souza had "the fire inside," like some other men of time, but you could sure sense his warmth when it was directed your way.
We are all going to miss him terribly. I am very grateful to have known him and to have been witness to his example. I send my love and condolences to all his family.
Stephen Lambert
Sorry that I will not be able to attend the services but wanted to send my thoughts and prayers to the family. I met Jim through my Dad at Union functions and have fond memories. RIP Jim and say Hi to My Dad!
Jim was a great Union man, had a terrific laugh and always seemed to have an impish grin. My wife and I had many memorable get togethers with Jim and Mary at conventions, seminars, and other Union functions. He would usually leave us laughing. I am saddened for Jim's personal family as well as for his Union family at his passing. Sine Die my Union brother.
Denny & Susan Elliott
