He was born to parents Edward and Marguerite Souza, on January 14, 1943, in Hayward, California, and was proud of his Portuguese heritage. Phillip graduated from San Leandro High School where he met the love of his life and best friend, Linda, and they were married in 1964. For fifty-seven years, Phillip and Linda were loving and spiritual partners, raising four children and six grandchildren who knew him as Packa.
Phillip was a journeyman floor installer by trade for thirty years, but his passion was God's calling to work full-time as a Youth Minister. His gift to teach the word of God and guide hundreds of youths and their parents throughout the years still resonates today. Phillip made many a pilgrimage with teenagers to Mexico, building homes for the less fortunate and sharing the Gospel. He participated in many youth camps over the span of his lifetime and touched people's hearts and souls through kindness and compassion. He always had words of wisdom to share that changed lives and gave hope. Phillip opened their home to care for others, including foster children. He lived a life of "service before self".
Phillip loved the outdoors, especially during the winter months when he hauled his trailer and dog to the duck club to spend time with friends and family. He enjoyed playing golf, woodworking, gardening, playing dominos, and was an avid Forty-Niners fan. But most of all, Phillip was a family man - he loved nothing more than being with family.
Phillip is survived by his wife Linda; their four children and spouses, Dan and wife Pam, Dena, Darrell and wife Stacey, and Dennis; their six grandchildren, Cassidy, Spencer, Jacob, Tatem, Jasmine, and Jordan; his sister Marlene and niece Becky.
