Charlene Danella Souza

Charlene Souza passed away peacefully while napping in her home on Thursday, October 19th. She was the matriarch of her family and was very involved in her community, serving as a civic leader and volunteer.

Charlene was born in San Jose, California. She was the oldest of three daughters born to Connie Bruno, who preceded her in death. Her father Charles Pillisi and step father Tony Bruno also preceded her in death.

Charlene graduated from Antioch High School class of 1957. She married Mickey Souza on October 8, 1961. They built a house and made Oakley their home for 42 years. Together Charlene and Mickey raised their two daughters while she enjoyed being a homemaker for many years. In 1989, Charlene began her 23 year career with Liberty Union High School District. She was selected as Citizen of the Year in the 1980s for her service to the community. Charlene served on the inaugural City of Oakley planning commission in 2001. She enjoyed helping to shape the growth of her beloved hometown. She was honored by Liberty High School Athletic Hall of Fame for years of support to the board.

She retired in 2012 to fulfill her passion for travel and to spend time with her grandchildren. Charlene loved traveling the world with her best friend, Bernice Viscia, throughout Europe and the states. Some of the highlights were viewing New York City from the top of the World Trade Center, entering the Blue Grotto off the Isle of Capri and taking in Paris from atop the Eiffel Tower.

Charlene is survived by her husband, Mickey Souza; children, Michelle Boccia (Dane) of Stockton, Nicole Garay (Gumaro) of San Ramon, Tracy Chew of Reno and step-daughter Linda Souza of Davis. Charlene was Nana to Gianna, Chandler, Vincent, Isabel, Mateo, Kelsey, Kendra, Sommer, Anthony and Ryan. Great-grandchildren Parker, Dawson, Kirra and Kalyce. She is also survived by her sisters, Ellen Pillisi, and JoAnn Stacy (Max), niece Tiffany Covarrubias (Brian) and their son Alex. Her strong will and unwavering devotion to family and community will be missed by all who knew her.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life on Thursday, November 9th from 12 to 4 at Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak Street, Brentwood. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to George Mark Children's House, 2121 George Mark Lane, San Leandro, CA 94578.