Judith Ann Souza

Judith Ann Souza, 82, of Merced, California, passed away peacefully at home on August 6, 2025, surrounded by her family and her beloved dog, Nikki. She faced her cancer diagnosis with strength and determination.

Born on July 20, 1943, in Modesto, California, to Ira DeWees and Gladys Rocha (DeWees), Judith spent her early years in Modesto before moving to the McSwain area. She attended Mitchell Junior High School and graduated from Merced High School, where she played clarinet in the band.

Judith began her banking career while still in high school at Merced-Mariposa Savings and went on to work as a Mortgage Loan Officer for over 45 years. She was an active member of several organizations including Soroptimist International Club, Tower Park Yacht Club, and Leads Club.

She found joy in walking her dog Nikki on the beach, spending time with friends, and cherishing moments with her family.

Judith is survived by her husband of 13 years, Clarence “Mark” Marks Souza; her children Christy Macias (Rich), Denise Bertuccio (Randy), and Rodney Machado (Kim); step-sons Kanaan Souza and Jordan Souza; brother Dan DeWees (Pat); sisters-in-law Janet Bettencourt (Eric) and Lavona Carter; grandchildren Allison Azevedo (Frank), Anthony Macias (Shelby Wood), Bradley Bertuccio (Colleen), Andrew Bertuccio (Katie), Gionni Bertuccio (Mia Torell), Stella Machado, Oliver Machado, Madeline Machado, and Tori Miller; great-grandchildren Payton Azevedo, Addison Bertuccio, Blake Bertuccio, Taylor Bertuccio, and Brantley Bertuccio; niece Danielle Miller (Chuck) and nephew Sam DeWees.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Robert DeWees.

A memorial service will be held at The Bertuccio Residence, 2945 Wardrobe Ave., Merced, CA 95341 on Sunday, August 24, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. A burial service will follow on Monday, August 25, 2025 at Lakewood Memorial Park, 900 Santa Fe Ave., Hughson, CA 95326 at 11:00 a.m.

In honor of Judith’s passion for reuniting missing pets with their families, donations may be made to New Beginnings for Merced County Animals, PO Box 1045, Winton, CA 95388. Tax ID: 36-4704902.