Obituary of John Batista Souza

John Batista Souza of Sarasota, Florida, formerly of East Windsor, NJ passed away peacefully at home on March 30, 2023.  He was born on July 15, 1934 in Manhattan, NY to Idalina and Jose deSouza. He is survived by his daughter Stephanie Appleby, grandson Ryan Appleby and many cousins both in the US and Portugal. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Johanna Souza after 52 years of marriage.

He was a New Yorker at heart and loved growing up in the big city. After high school he enrolled in Syracuse University, but before graduating he enrolled in the army. He was stationed in Bamberg, Germany where he met his beloved Johanna and the two returned to the US together. He then launched his career as a draftsman that spanned decades. He eventually returned to Syracuse to complete his degree in 1977 and have his daughter Stephanie watch him graduate. He then turned his focus towards teaching in the field of drafting. He loved watching his students succeed and helped many join the workforce.

He was a devoted husband and father who was known for his compassion, heart and humor. He never meant to be funny but was charismatic none the less. A true family man who used his life to positively impact others that led to a long and successful life. He moved to Sarasota after the death of his wife to be close to both his daughter and grandson.  He always had dreamed of living in Florida, and that dream had come true.

The family would like to extend their tremendous gratitude towards the staff at Tidewell Hospice for the compassionate care they provided during his final months. Memorial donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice:   https://tidewellfoundation.org/donate/.