Mary Madeline Souza

Mary Madeline Souza died at home on Friday, April 11, 2014 surrounded by her loving family. A memorial will be held at St.Barnabas Church in Portsmouth RI on April 14th at 10 am. Born in Portsmouth RI on 2/4/1931, she was the daughter of Henry and Mary Dutra. Maddie shared 46 years of her life with her husband, William J. Souza. "Maddie "was survived by her husband Bill of Portsmouth and her children, Henry Dees of Middletown, Margie Silva of Bristol and Heather Cosimini of Portsmouth, 5 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her beloved baby sister Linda Dutra and brother George Dutra. She is preceded in death by her siblings Henry, Francis, Alice, Joseph, Helen and her son Norbert Dees.Maddie was actively employed at St. Barnabas Rectory for over 25 years. Throughout her life, she diligently devoted all of her time and energy to caring for her family, with a soft spot for her grandchildren and granddogs. In fact, she was the "dog whisperer" of Souza Way. Maddie walked a mile per day with her beloved dogs. Not only did she care for her family and the dogs, but she always made a point to look after people in need in the community. Maddie was a mover, and a shaker who was always selflessly put other's needs before her own. She would always lovingly go the extra mile to care for her family and friends in any way she could. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in loving memory of Maddie Souza to Visiting Nurse Services of Newport Bristol Counties, www.vnsri.org.