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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lefki Spalas, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished member of our community. Lefki was born in Sevria, Kozani, Greece, in 1930, one of six siblings. She lived through challenging times, surviving the hardships of World War II, an experience that shaped her resilience and deep appreciation for life.
In 1956, Lefki traveled to America with her sister Katina in search of a better life and opportunities. They were welcomed by their uncle George, who offered them a new beginning in a land full of hope. In 1959, Lefki met the love of her life, Yanni Spalas, at St. Demetrios Church dance in Philadelphia. The connection was immediate, and they married shortly thereafter, embarking on a lifelong journey together.
Lefki and Yanni raised two beautiful daughters, Betty and Georgia, and worked side by side in the family pizza business, where Lefki’s hard work, dedication, and love for her family shone brightly.
Lefki devoted much of her life to her faith in the Greek Orthodox Church, which was a cornerstone of her identity. She passed on the importance of her religion to her children and grandchildren, instilling in them the same values of love, faith, and devotion that she held so dear.
Lefki loved to travel, and her adventures took her to many places, creating memories that she shared with her family and friends. These travels, however, were always centered on her family, faith, and the joy of new experiences. One of Lefki’s most treasured experiences was her pilgrimage to Israel, where she traveled with Father Gregory, who always considered her a sister. The journey was deeply meaningful to her, as it solidified her profound connection to her faith and the church.
At home, Lefki was a proud homemaker who loved the comfort and warmth of her home. She had a special talent for crocheting beautiful blankets, which she lovingly made for all her grandchildren and even her great-grandchild. These blankets were not only warm but a tangible expression of her love and care for each member of her family.
Her love for family extended beyond her immediate household. Lefki was known for her incredible cooking and baking, and her famous spanakopita was a favorite among all who had the pleasure of tasting it. She enjoyed spending time at the casino with her Koumbari and friends, always surrounded by laughter, love, and joy.
From this remarkable woman came so much life. She nurtured her children, raised a beautiful family, and witnessed the growth of her grandchildren and great-grandchild. Lefki’s legacy lives on through the generations she touched, creating a lasting impact on all those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be remembered as a loving and loved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, whose memory will forever be cherished. May her memory be eternal, and may her spirit continue to live on in her family.
Rest in peace, Lefki. You were truly one of a kind.
Lefki is survived by her loving daughters, Betty (Marko) Nicholis and Georgia (Nicholas) Sioutis, beloved granchildren, George, Sevasti, Anastasios, Dionysia and great-granddaughter, Georgia as well as many loving nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to view from 10-11am Thursday March 6, 2025 at St. Luke Greek Orthodox Church, 35 N. Malin Rd, Broomall, PA 19008. Her funeral service will begin PROMPTLY at 11am. Intrment to follow in Arlington Cemetery, Drexel Hill, PA 19026. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations in Lefki's name be made to the church.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lefki Spalas, please visit our floral store.
St. Luke Greek Orthodox Church
35 North Malin Rd., Broomall PA 19008
Tel: 1-610-353-1592
Web: https://www.st-luke.org/