Despina Croussouloudis passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the age of 93.
She was born to John and Eleni Croussouloudis in Manhattan, New York, and spent her formative childhood years in Chios, Greece, where she grew up alongside her twin sister, Maria, and her older sister, Stella, both of beloved memory. After returning to New York, she graduated from Queens College with a major in Spanish and later earned a Master’s degree in Library Science from Columbia University.
Despina devoted more than four decades of her professional life to the New York Public Library in Manhattan, where she flourished as a children’s librarian. Through her charisma, creativity, and natural ability to connect with young minds, she inspired countless children to develop a lifelong love of reading. Over the years, she led numerous workshops and programs and took great pride in her work and its impact.
Beyond her professional life, Despina had a profound and lasting influence on her family. She was deeply devoted to her five nieces, one nephew, and their children, sharing her world generously and with joy. From carefully chosen books and expert origami lessons to baking Greek cookies together, she filled their lives with memorable experiences. Visits with their beloved Thea Despina were moments of discovery, as she introduced them to art, culture, and her enduring love of nature.
She will be remembered as a devoted daughter, a caring sister, and a cherished aunt whose presence enriched the lives of all who knew her.
Funeral Services
A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, located at 808 N. Broom Street, Wilmington, DE 19806.
A viewing will be held prior to the service from 11:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Interment will follow at Silverbrook Cemetery, Wilmington, Delaware.