Louis D. DeSantis

Louis D. DeSantis, age 88, a resident of Springfield and loving husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, passed away on February 24, 2025. Born in Philadelphia to the late Dominick and Theresa (Lauria) DeSantis, Louis was a graduate of Springfield High School and Temple University, where he received a Bachelor’s Degree. Later, he went on to receive a Master’s Degree in Education from St. Joseph’s University and a Master’s in Counseling from West Chester University. Louis led the Guidance Department at the middle school for Springfield School District until his retirement, where he was known for his love for education and unwavering support for his students and fellow educators. As an active member of St. Francis of Assisi Church, Louis served as a lector and was a cherished member of the Bereavement Ministry. He was also a dynamic actor and beloved member of the St. Francis Players, delighting audiences with his performances as characters like “Alfred P. Doolittle” in My Fair Lady, and the titular character in The Wizard of Oz. He had a wonderful sense of humor, and believed the most important thing you could do was be kind to other people. He was also a talented gardener and took great pride in his beautiful home and backyard. The most important thing to Louis was family. He was endlessly devoted to his wife of 64 years, Joanne. Louis said he and Joanne were “made for each other” and often spoke of how blessed they felt in their marriage. They traveled the world together, and their favorite place to explore was Italy, where they loved indulging in the endless history, art, and of course, food. Louis was also very proud of his Italian heritage. The youngest of six children, Louis is predeceased by his siblings, Rita DeSantis, Gloria (Vince) Pisciotta, Anthony (Doris) DeSantis, Florence (Robert) Hannum, and Theresa DeSantis. Louis and Joanne had five daughters, whom he called their “masterpieces,” and loved being a grandfather to his six grandchildren, who knew him as “Poppy.” He treasured spending time with them in Avalon, NJ, each summer. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Joanne DeSantis; children, Jeanmarie, Mary Clare (Robert) Smith, Ann Marie (Chuck) Carrathers, Rita Capaldi, and Joanne (Stephen) Dent; grandchildren, Emily (Andrew), Molly and Caroline Smith, Arthur Louis and Nan-Nan Carrathers, and John Capaldi. Louis is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews and countless dear friends. Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 8 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church (136 Saxer Ave., Springfield) with a mass to follow at 10:30 a.m. and interment at SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery. Donations in Louis' memory may be made to the Carmelite Sisters (P.O. Box 37, Central Valley, NY 10917), Sisters of St. Joseph, or Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Your generosity in honoring Louis' legacy is deeply appreciated. Condolences can be sent through Williams Lombardo Funeral Homes.

Louis D. DeSantis

December 8, 1936 - February 24, 2025