Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Stanley R. Souza, affectionately known as “Gigi” to his family and friends, a resident of Wilmington for many years and formerly a longtime resident of Malden, passed away unexpectedly at home on June 2, 2026. He was 94 years old.
Born on May 12, 1932, in Malden, Massachusetts, Stanley was the cherished only son of the late Stanley and Evelyn (Flores) Souza. He was raised and educated in Malden and was a proud graduate of Malden High School.
Throughout his life, Stan was an athlete and sports fan, especially enjoying football. As a member of the renowned Malden High Golden Tornadoes football team, he enjoyed many memorable experiences, including traveling to Florida to compete in the Gator Bowl, where his team defeated Lee High School to capture the National Championship title. Football remained one of his greatest passions, and he treasured the lifelong friendships he formed with his teammates. He was especially proud when both of his sons followed in his footsteps by playing for the Malden Golden Tornadoes. Stan could always be found in the bleachers cheering them on.
A proud patriot, Stanley enlisted in the United States Navy on July 31, 1951, during the Korean War. He honorably served aboard the USS McGowan, both overseas and stateside, before returning home to his family following his honorable discharge in December 1953.
One of the greatest blessings of Stan’s life was his marriage to his beloved wife and childhood sweetheart, Catherine Mary “Mimi” Rogers. The couple’s love story began in the seventh grade, and they were married on April 19, 1953. Together they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, family, and cherished memories until Catherine’s passing in December 2020.
Stan and Catherine made their home in Malden, where they raised their two sons and created a warm, welcoming home that became a gathering place for family and friends. Family was truly the center of Stan’s life. His devotion was evident in countless ways, from bringing his wife flowers every week to being a constant source of love, guidance, and encouragement for his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
As a father, Stan was always present—offering advice, supporting his sons in their pursuits, and teaching them the values of responsibility, hard work, and integrity. As “Gigi,” he found immense joy in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he absolutely adored. He rarely missed a school event, sporting competition, dance recital, graduation, or special occasion. His unwavering presence made each of them feel deeply loved and cherished.
A dedicated and hardworking man, Stan spent many years working as a lineman and power follow-through inspector for the telephone company, witnessing remarkable changes in technology and communication throughout his career. Known for his reliability, common sense approach, strong work ethic, and friendly nature, he earned the respect and friendship of many coworkers. Beyond his profession, Stan was the ultimate handyman and problem solver. Whether it involved plumbing, electrical work, construction, or repairs of any kind, he possessed a remarkable ability to figure things out and help anyone in need.
Living with his son Stan and family in Wilmington for close to 30 years he became a familiar presence in the Wilmington Community. His presence in the household was loving, positive, and appreciated, making our house a home. Always active and helping out at Fairmeadow Rd., never asking for anything in return.
Stan especially looked forward to spending time with family at their cottage in Wakefield, New Hampshire, where he enjoyed swimming, fishing, and creating lasting memories with those he loved most. He also treasured camping trips with his close-knit group of friends known as the “Six Packers,” sharing countless laughs and friendships over the years.
Stan will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, his patient and humble nature, and his heart of gold. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and never hesitated to put others before himself. A deeply devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, loyal friend, proud veteran, and true American, Stan touched countless lives through his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Stan was the beloved husband of the late Catherine “Mimi” Souza; the devoted father of Michael Souza and his wife, Ellen, of North Andover, and Stanley Souza of Wilmington. He was the adored “Gigi” of Caille Roy and her husband William, Kyle Souza and his fiancée Julie Barthelmess, Kellie Souza and her significant other Michael Haas, Kevin Souza and Catherine Souza and her companion Michael Jurist. He was the proud great-grandfather of William “Liam” and Ellen “Ellie”.
Stan was the dear brother of Patricia Tirrell and her late husband, James, of Malden. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends.
Family and friends are invited to attend Visiting Hours at Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Avenue (Route 62), Wilmington, on Sunday, June 7, from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. All are welcome to gather at the funeral home on Monday, June 8, at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas of Villanova Church, 126 Middlesex Avenue, Wilmington. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Wildwood Cemetery in Wilmington.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Stanley’s memory to The Michael J. Fox Parkinson Foundation, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5014.
To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.
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