Robert F. Souza, 84 of Somerset passed away peacefully on Monday, January 23rd at Clifton after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's. A lifelong resident of Somerset, he was the only child of the late Frank B. Souza and Helen (Farias) Nordeste. Mr. Souza is also survived by Patricia A. Medeiros, a woman with whom he shared a long, loving relationship for 47 years.

Mr. Souza is a 1957 graduate of Somerset High School. He went on to study History earning his degree, Cum Laude from Providence College. He was the recipient of the Paul Reagan Award, which is given to a student who represents the college best on and off the field. Mr. Souza continued his education by earning his Master's Degree from Bridgewater State College.

Mr. Souza spent his entire teaching career at Somerset High School where he taught History for 33 years. During his tenure Mr. Souza was known as the consummate professional and a dedicated and well-respected coach, mentor and colleague. He formed countless relationships through his coaching of baseball, football and hockey.

After retirement, he utilized his encyclopedic knowledge in hosting a sports show on Somerset Cable Access called "Out of the Park." Mr. Souza was honored by Somerset High and its Hall of Fame at a recent ceremony for his long and accomplished career where he received a State House Proclamation from Rep. Patricia Haddad.

Mr. Souza enjoyed golfing and was a longtime member of the Fall River Country Club where he was the recipient of the Tom Tetrault Sportsmanship Award. Mr. Souza cherished his time spent traveling with Pat, especially vacationing at Hilton Head.

Pat would like to extend a sincere and heartfelt thanks to Mr. Souza's neighbors, Somerset First Responders, the outstanding staff at Clifton and Hanover Hospice for their kindness and compassion they extended to Mr. Souza throughout the years.

His Funeral Mass was celebrated on Monday, January 30th, in Our Lady of Peace Parish at St. Patrick's Church followed by his committal at St. Patrick's Cemetery both in Somerset. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider making a donation in Mr. Souza's memory to The Robert F. Souza Scholarship c/o Rockland Trust 100 Slades Ferry Ave, Somerset, MA 02726

Family members are always grateful for relatives and friends wishing to make in-person expressions of kindness and support. If you were unable to do so, because of this pandemic 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!