Despina Pappas, whose life remained closely tied to family, Greek heritage, and the careful work of making a home, passed away on June 12, 2026. She was 100.
Born Despina Papadopoulos in Krianera, Greece, she was the daughter of Stavros and Sophia Papadopoulos. Her life later brought her to the United States, where she lived in Mullica Hill, New Jersey, and Eddystone, Pennsylvania, before moving to Bushnell, Florida, four years ago.
Despina carried her Greek heritage with pride. She was an active member of St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Media, a community that reflected an important part of her life.
At home, she was known for the things she made with her hands. She enjoyed sewing and crocheting, but family was always closest to her. Her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren were a central part of her later years.
She was the wife of the late George Pappas. She is survived by her children, Nicholas Pappas, Michael Pappas, and Sophie Pappas Mamalis and her husband, Socratis. Nicholas was married to the late Barbara Rinderer Pappas. Despina was also the grandmother of the late George Pappas and is survived by five grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 10 to 11 a.m. at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 30 East Forge Road, Media, Pennsylvania. The funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. Burial will take place at Lawn Croft Cemetery in Linwood.
Memorial gifts may be made to the American Cancer Society in Despina Pappas’ memory.