Helen Sosangelis (née Vallianos) of Medford, NJ, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, at the age of 86, with her daughters by her side.
Born in Camden, NJ, Helen was the daughter of Spiros and Olimbia Vallianos, first-generation Greek immigrants from Kefalonia and Ithaca. She grew up in a close-knit home where family and faith shaped her early years. A graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, she became the first in her family to attend college, earning a B.A. in Political Science from Rutgers University. That achievement marked the beginning of her lifelong interest in civic life. She remained active in community and politics, serving with the New Jersey Federation of Republican Women and attending Medford Township Council meetings for many years.
Her life truly blossomed when she met Harry James Sosangelis. The two quickly fell in love, and their marriage became a model of devotion and partnership. Together, they raised their daughters, Athena and Olympia, while also building a business and a home in Medford. They owned and operated the Indian Chief Tavern, also known as The Medford Inn, and later opened Harry’s Restaurant. In the mid-1980s they transitioned into commercial real estate, working side by side in a new chapter of their lives.
Family always came first for Helen. She cared lovingly for her mother in her later years and later devoted herself to Harry during his illness. Her daughters remember her as warm and generous, with a vibrant spirit that lit up every gathering. Helen had a quick sense of humor, a magnetic personality, and a gift for making others feel at ease. Honesty was one of her defining traits — she was incapable of telling even a small untruth.
In retirement, she enjoyed the rhythm of simple pleasures: attending church, going to the movies, and sharing meals with friends. Her greatest joy came from time spent with her grandson Alexander, whether playing together, looking at photos, or simply enjoying each other’s company. She followed his accomplishments with pride and cherished every moment they shared.
Her Greek Orthodox faith was her foundation. A dedicated member of Saint Thomas Greek Orthodox Church in Cherry Hill, she found strength and comfort in her faith and in her community.
Helen is survived by her daughters, Athena Sosangelis Lorenzo (husband Robert Lorenzo) and Olympia Sosangelis; her grandson, Alexander Lorenzo; and her brother, Gregory Vallianos.
Family and friends are invited to honor her memory on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Saint Thomas Greek Orthodox Church (615 Mercer Street, Cherry Hill, NJ). The viewing will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Saint Thomas Greek Orthodox Church, 615 Mercer Street, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002, with the note “Memorial Donation for Helen Sosangelis,” or to Regis High School, Office of Advancement, 55 East 84th Street, New York, NY 10028 (with the note “In memory of Helen Sosangelis”).
Helen will be remembered as a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her love and spirit will live on in the lives she touched.