Antonio Sousa, 98, of Ludlow, MA, passed away at his home, surrounded by his loving family on Jul 29, 2026.
Born on April 15, 1928, the son of Maria (Rebello) and Albert Monteiro Sousa, Tony grew up on Duke Street, later graduating from Ludlow HS in 1947. After graduation, he worked as an autobody technician at Leader Chevrolet.
In 1952, Tony was drafted into the U.S. Army, proudly serving the country he loved during the Korean Conflict. He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Korean Service Medal with Bronze Star, United Nations Service Medal, and National Defense Medal in recognition for his service.
After returning home, Antonio earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering from Western New England College in 1963. For thirty years, he worked as an Application Engineer, assisting manufacturing companies with lubrication systems. He later completed his career working for the US Postal Service.
Tony loved being a citizen of Ludlow, where he was elected to the Board of Selectman & Board of Health. He was appointed as Graves Registration Officer by the Selectmen and took great pride in being named Honorary Marshall for the Memorial Day Parade in 1990.
Tony fulfilled a lifelong dream when he earned his private pilot’s license. He took joy in owning his Piper Cherokee and was always happy up in the sky. He loved his summer home at Hampton Beach, sharing golden moments with loved ones and family as much as he possibly could. In his latter years, Tony became a bit of a Renaissance man when he began researching recipes and experimenting in the kitchen. His specialty was eagerly tested by all the family when he began baking Portuguese breads.
In 1950, Tony married Norma Falconer, the love of his life, beginning a 75 year journey together. They raised their 3 daughters with warmth, love, and affection. He always stated to those around him that his family was his entire universe, and was truly proud of all his girls.
Tony is survived by his wife Norma and daughters Sharon Cenedella (Edward), Pamela Lane (Bryan), Nancy Sousa Giza (Mark), his grandchildren, Katie, Benjamin, Matthew, Allison, Harrison & Chandler, along with his great grandchildren, Brooke, Genevieve, Grayson, Sadie, Lucas and Emerson; and his beloved sisters, Lucilia Nunes and Odette Sousa.
Tony always raised a glass in celebration, enjoying each moment to the fullest. He felt blessed by his family and will be truly missed.
Funeral services for Tony will be held on Tuesday, August 4th. Visiting hours will be held from 11:30am-1:15pm at the First Church in Ludlow with a church service beginning at 1:30pm followed by burial with military honors in Island Pond Cemetery. Donations may be made in Tony’s memory to First Church of Ludlow 859 Center St. Ludlow, Ma. 01056 or to Ludlow Veterans Services 487 Holyoke St. Ludlow Ma. 01056
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Previous Events
Visitation
4
Aug
859 Center Street
Ludlow, Ma 01056
Service
4
Aug
859 Center Street
Ludlow, Ma 01056
Cemetery Details
Location
499 Center Street
Ludlow, Ma 01056
