Phillip T. Frangos

Phillip T. Frangos passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2024 in Cyprus, just one day after the conclusion of the 102nd AHEPA Supreme Convention in Larnaca, Cyprus. He was born January 22, 1940, in Chicago to Themistocles and Maria Frangos and lived in Lansing, Michigan for over 50 years.

Phillip earned both his undergraduate and law degrees at Northwestern University where he demonstrated academic excellence and intellectual rigor. Phillip’s work ethic, honed during these formative years, became a defining characteristic of his life. He consistently strove for excellence in every endeavor, as seen in his commitment to the church, his profession, and community. Phillip, Archon Referendarios, was a dedicated member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church (Lansing) and a proud member of Leadership 100.

Phillip’s personal life was testament to his unwavering devotion to his family. He met the love of his life, Tula, at a Philadelphia AHEPA Christmas dance in 1978 where their connection was instant. Their story blossomed into a beautiful marriage that spanned over 45 years. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Themistocles and Maria, creating a lifetime of cherished memories.

Phillip served as Chief Deputy Secretary of State and Chief Executive Officer of the Michigan Department of State for many years, an agency with 2500 employees and 200 offices including 10 museums. He oversaw state licensing and regulation of drivers, titling and registration of

automobiles, administration of election and campaign finance laws, registration and regulation of

auto dealerships and auto repair facilities, state historical programs, and administration of state

trademark and copyright laws.

One of his passions was the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), where he was a cornerstone of the community, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements. His tenure as Supreme President (2014 -2015), and as Chairman of the Board of Trustees in the late 1980s, were marked by significant milestones that profoundly impacted the organization and its mission to promote Hellenic ideals of education, philanthropy, and civic responsibility.

He played a pivotal role in securing the headquarters building for AHEPA in Washington, D.C. This acquisition not only provided a central hub for the organization but also symbolized a lasting commitment to advocating for Greek American issues and supporting the broader Hellenic community​. Also, as Chairman, he participated in the presentation of AHEPA’s $612,000 donation toward the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island to the restoration drive’s chairman, Lee Iacocca, then-head of Chrysler Corporation.

As Supreme President, Phillip was instrumental in revitalizing AHEPA’s membership, leading initiatives that expanded the organization’s reach across the United States, Canada, and Europe. His legacy is further marked by his fundraising efforts for the rebuilding of the Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine at the World Trade Center, which demonstrated his dedication to preserving and promoting Hellenic heritage and faith​. As a result, he would represent AHEPA at the historic Ground Blessing Ceremony for St. Nicholas, laying one of the 24 white marble stones placed there.

During his term, Phillip led Ahepans by participating at events in Selma to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March for voting rights. Phillip was also a passionate orator who never shied away from communicating the rich and intense Hellenic history that influences the world around us. His speeches were known for their eloquence and depth, inspiring many to appreciate and uphold the values of Hellenism.

Phillip is survived by his beloved wife, Tula Kackos Frangos; his children Themistocles P. Frangos and Maria I. (George) Pagiotas; and his adored grandchildren, Phillipos, Iliana, and Ioanna; sister-in-law Elaine (Mark) Sobczak, many cousins, nieces and nephews, others relatives, and friends.

Family and friends are invited to join us in a visitation and Trisagion Service on Friday, August 9, 2024 from 7:00 to 9:00pm at St. Luke Greek Orthodox Church, 35 N. Malin Road, Broomall, PA. The funeral service will take place at 11am on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at St. Luke with Rev. Fr. Christ Kontos and Rev. Dr. Mark Sietsema officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00-11am at the church. The funeral service will begin promptly at 11am and will include an AHEPA Farewell. Interment to follow at Valley Forge Memorial Gardens, King of Prussia, PA.

In lieu of flowers, the family has created the Frangos Family Educational Scholarship. Donations can be made to:

AHEPA Educational Foundation

Att: Frangos Scholarship

1909 Q Street, NW

Suite 500

Washington, DC 20009

Phillip T. Frangos’ legacy of love, wisdom, kindness, and unconditional generosity will continue to inspire and guide all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished. May his memory be eternal.

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