Argyro “Argyroula” Arvanitis

Argyro “Argyroula” Arvanitis, nee Papagiannis, age 90, born in Nestani, Tripolis, Greece, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 3, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Andreas Arvanitis for 58 memorable years.  Devoted and cherished mother of Peggy (Michael) Gyftakos.  Proud grandmother of Martha and George Andrew (Alehandra) Gyftakos.  Dear daughter of George and Diamando Papagiannis.  Fond sister of Konstantina Katris and the late Niki (Spiros) Athanasopoulos. Dear sister-in-law of Elias (Angeliki), Vasilios (Ekaterini), Demetrios (Evgenia), Marcos (Nafsika), the late Ioannis (Christina) and the late Panagiotis (Maria).  Loving aunt of many nieces and nephews and fond cousin and caring friend of many, here and in Greece.

Argyroula’s life was a shining example of all that a devoted wife, homemaker and mother should be.  She was strong, capable and tireless, always striving to make everything better.  Her family was truly the light of her life.  She cherished every moment she spent with her family, and was always grateful to have them in her life. Argyroula was more than content to be the central figure in the life of her daughter, Peggy, from whom she derived great pride. Alongside her late husband Andreas, she worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for their daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren.

Argyroula was selflessly devoted to raising her grandchildren, whom she nurtured with unconditional love and affection.  She was a doting, protective and giving grandmother. She taught her grandchildren self-respect, good manners, the importance of family and forgiveness, as well as the significance of preserving the traditions and values of the Hellenic culture.  Argyroula created a lifetime of unforgettable memories with her grandchildren for which they will always be grateful.

Argyroula had a special way of making people feel welcomed and worthy.  She took great joy and pride in entertaining and bringing together family members and close friends to celebrate various occasions. She was a friend to all, often engaging in warm conversation with strangers and always eliciting smiles.  All who were a part of her life cherished her smile and her magnetic ability to pass that smile on.

Argyroula’s life was centered on her unwavering dedication to God and the Greek Orthodox faith. Argyroula was a wonderful example of faith, hope and charity. She was a compassionate, kind hearted and generous human being.  Driven by a passion to help those in need in her community, Argyroula had volunteered in the Philoptochos Society and PTA of her local parish and was a familiar face for many years in the church kitchen assisting with catering needs during countless festivals and church functions.  She did this not out of obligation, but because of who she was.

Argyroula will be dearly missed by family and friends who were blessed to have known and loved her.   Her memory and legacy of love will always remain in our hearts.

Visitation Sunday, September 11, 2022 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Nelson Funeral Home, 820 West Talcott Avenue, Park Ridge, IL 60068. Funeral Service Monday, September 12, 2022 10:00 AM at Saint George Greek Orthodox Church, 2701 North Sheffield Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614. The church service can be viewed live or recorded at St. George’s Youtube channel. Interment to follow at Elmwood Cemetery, River Grove, IL. Arrangements by Memory Eternal Funeral Directors, (847) 375-0095.

May her memory be eternal.