Francis J. Souza, 97, of Fall River, passed away on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Charlton Memorial Hospital. Born in Fall River, he was the son of the late Manuel Souza and the late Edna (Donovan) Silvia, and stepson of Tiargo Silvia.

A U. S. Navy veteran of World War II, Francis served on the USS Fargo and was stationed in Italy for an extended tour. Employed at Southeastern Massachusetts University (now UMass Dartmouth) on staff in its cafeteria for many years prior to his retirement, he had also worked: for a time in an upholstery business; a number of years with a railroad company; and as a licensed hairdresser with a beauty salon in Boston.  A lover of music, he was also a talented singer who performed on tour throughout the country.

He is survived by two sisters, Rose Marie Bolen and Linda Silvia (husband Richard) both of Fall River, and a niece, Megan Silvia-Flavell (husband Alan).

His Funeral Mass was celebrated on Monday, January 6th, in St. Anthony of Padua Church followed by his committal at St. Patrick Cemetery.

Family members are always grateful for relatives and friends wishing to make in-person expressions of kindness and support. If you are/were unable to do so, because of health concerns or any other reason, all are urged to express their sympathy online or by mail. To ensure that said condolences and/or sympathy cards reach the family, please always make sure that submissions online are made directly through the funeral home's website (www.silvafaria.com) and not through a third party. Thank you!