Pio ke Kukui, Pō'ele ka Hale The light is extinguished, the house is dark. (‘Ōlelo No‘eau 2617)

 

This message is sent with a sad and burdened heart to inform you of the passing of Ali‘i Sir William D. Souza at 3 a.m. on Tuesday, February 22, 2022.

 

His sister Lani, has reached out to the Royal Order of Kamehameha I for assistance and we will be working with her and the ‘Ohana Souza regarding necessary arrangements. As he has touched many lives through the years, it is hoped that organizations and individuals may be called upon, in whatever way they are able, to ensure a fond and well-deserved service for this gentleman who served for the betterment of Hawai‘i.

 

Ali‘i Sir Souza had been battling with a health condition that over the past few months required hospital stays at Kuakini Hospital. As his condition improved, he was relocated to St. Francis Villas in Nu’uanu. He was then moved to Ann Pearl Nursing Facility in Kane’ohe last Friday. Royal Order members paid visits as allowed and reports of his demeanor and conversations led us to believe that his condition was improving and would increase as time continued.

 

We would like to also share that this past Saturday, 2/19, high chiefs of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I convened in Kona for a ceremony and meeting. We closed the meeting with prayer and offered requests for those members who required healing. Lani Ali‘i Sir Souza was one whom we prayed for specifically, respecting him as one of the senior members of The Order. We ask that you keep his ‘Ohana in prayer and that they find comfort and ease of grief. Peace and love everlasting for the soul of this respected and honored man. Amen.

 

In honor and remembrance,

 

Royal Order of Kamehameha I

Moku ‘o Hawai‘i, Helu ‘Ekahi

(Artwork by Aaron Daguio)