Maria Vlahakis Pappas

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Maria Vlahakis Pappas on December 8, 2023, at the age of 99 in Williamsburg, Virginia. She passed peacefully at home with her daughter Cynthia Pappas Smith and son-in-law Jeff E. Smith. Maria was born on December 13, 1923, in Brooklyn, New York, and brought joy and love to the lives of her family and friends.

Maria was a woman of unwavering devotion and kindness. She dedicated her life to her family and loved them above all else. Her generosity knew no bounds, as she ensured that every child in the family, no matter how distant, felt loved and welcomed. Maria's warm and nurturing character extended to her professional life, where she spent 25 years as a Special Education Teacher at Herricks Middle School in Searingtown, New York. Prior to her teaching career, Maria began her journey as a dietitian at French Hospital of New York. Her passion for education led her to acquire a Masters in Elementary Education and a Masters in Special Education. She was a proud member of the New York State United Teachers Union (NYSUT) and continued to contribute to their mission even after retiring to Palm Harbor, FL in 1985.

In her moments of respite, Maria found solace and joy in her hobbies. She had a green thumb, finding fulfillment in tending to her garden and maintaining her beautiful fruit trees. Maria had a creative spark and enjoyed crafting seashell decorations, enchanting all who beheld them. Additionally, she took great pleasure in writing heartfelt cards and "letters from Santa" to all the children in the family, spreading love and cheer during the holiday seasons.

Maria is survived by her loving siblings Irene Hindle and James Vlahakis, as well as her cherished children, Nina Pappas Qualters and Cynthia Pappas (Jeff E.) Smith. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her grandchildren Jeffrey S. (Abby) Smith and Caitlin Qualters (John) Wells, and great-grandchildren Elaina and Charlotte Smith. She will be deeply missed by her family, who found solace in her loving and guiding presence.

A traditional funeral service to honor and remember Maria's life will be held at St. Anna Greek Orthodox Church, located at 85 Voorhees Corner Road, Flemington, NJ 08822. The service will commence on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at 11 AM. Burial will follow in the family plot at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Capner Street, Flemington, NJ. Please note there will be no viewing prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Maria's beloved church, the Holy Apostle Greek Orthodox Church Building Fund. Contributions sent to 21580 Atlantic Blvd. #160 Dulles, VA 20165 will help support the church's ongoing mission and community outreach efforts.

During this time of profound loss, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Maria Pappas's family and friends. May her soul find eternal rest, and may her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration for all who knew her.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit Maria’s Tribute Wall at www.holcombefisher.com.