Stephen A. Paninos, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2023. He lived a long, rich life surrounded by his loved ones and community. Steve leaves behind his beloved wife of 66 years, Tina (Lascarides) Paninos; sons Gregory (Lisa Nickell), Mark (Keri Clarke) and daughter Presvytera Christine (Rev. Anthony Salzman); grandchildren Andrew, Jason, Alexander Paninos, Stephanos (Anastasia Peristeraki), Maximos Salzman, Elianna, Kiara, Chrysanthe Paninos; and great-grandchildren Amalia, Silas Salzman and Lucas Paninos.
Born on November 11, 1928, in Philadelphia to immigrant parents Athanasios and Sophia (Christakis) Paninos, Steve was raised in Greece by his uncle Dr. Aristidis Christakis and aunt Eutychia after losing his parents at a young age. During WWII, he fled to the mountains with his family when the Germans attacked their town of Servia. At the war’s end, Steve returned to America and was lovingly taken in by his father and the Stamoulis family, remaining close with his cousins Helen, Niki, Paula, and John. He also cherished relationships with the Christakis family in the US and Greece.
After high school, Steve became a TV repairman for RCA, where he honed his technical skills. In 1956, he met his soulmate Tina at a wedding, and they married in 1957. Together, they built a wonderful life and successful business, Perk Up Coffee Service, through dedication and care.
A pillar of St. Luke Greek Orthodox Church in Broomall, PA, Steve served as treasurer and auditor for many years. He and Tina were fixtures at the St. Luke Greek Affair, tirelessly making loukoumades. In 2013, they moved to Athens, GA, becoming active members of St. Philothea GOC. Steve was most happy spending time with family and friends who will remember his genuine warmth and interest in everyone.
A visitation will be held Sunday, September 24, from 5-7 p.m. at Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, Watkinsville, GA, with Trisagion prayers at 7 p.m. The funeral will take place Monday, September 25 at 11 a.m. at St. Philothea GOC, followed by burial and a makaria luncheon.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Philothea or St. Luke Greek Orthodox Churches.