Sultana "Tana" Bonatsos

Sultana "Tana" Bonatsos, aged 92, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family on July 30, 2024, in Media, Pennsylvania. Born on November 22, 1931, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, she was a beacon of love and dedication, known affectionately as "Tana" to those close to her.

Sultana's early career flourished in the fashion industry where she worked as a buyer for John Wanamaker's in downtown Philadelphia, focusing on Infant Children's clothing. Her passion for children extended into her later years when she became deeply involved with Greenfield Elementary School. There, she served as an ambassador and liaison for educational collaborations with Jefferson University, coordinating numerous educational outings and fostering a lasting relationship between the institutions.

Most people knew Sultana as a straight shooter who did not sugar coat anything and told it like it was. She had a smile that would light up the entire room. Although she did not have any biological children of her own, she helped raise (and Spoil) many of her nieces and nephews.  More than anything Sultana can be best described as a family person. Someone who always put others first and dedicated her life to taking care of her family, especially her mother and brother George. 

A proud believer in the Greek Orthodox faith, Sultana and her family had deep roots planted at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Philadelphia, PA. Her hobbies included being an avid collector of all things beautiful, including dolls, jewelry, antiques and artifacts. She also had a passion for traveling the World, always returning with treasures and tales from her journeys. She often delighted her nieces and nephews with details of her travels on countless occasions, fostering their love even at a young age for adventure and imagination. 

Moreover, Tana was a devoted animal lover, rescuing and adopting countless animals throughout her life. Showing as a bright example of what it is like to put something greater before your own self, and the importance of doing good and giving back in any way that you could, no matter how great or small. 

As the last surviving siblings Sultana's and Mary's bond became even stronger as they depended deeply on their constant presence, and unconditional love and affection.  

Sultana is survived by her sister Mary; nieces: Koukla, Tana, Koralia, Alexandra, and Mercina; and Nephews: John Pete, Steve, Jimmy, Michael, John, and Stevie. She was preceded in death by her parents Koralia 'Helen' and Eftathios 'Steve', and siblings George, James, and Kleonickie 'Kleo'.

Funeral services will be held on August 7, 2024, at St. Luke's Greek Orthodox Church in Broomall, PA. Viewing will begin at 10 am with services starting promptly at 11 am. Burial will follow at Lawnview Cemetery. Details of the repast will be announced at that time. Vraim Funeral Home of Upper Darby, PA, is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association, a cause very close to Sultana's heart, in support of her sister's Mary and Kleo,  who both suffered from the disease. Contributions can be made in her memory at https://www.alz.org/ 

The family would like to extend theinvitation to those who cannot attend the church service or commital:

γεύμα, φαγητό will be held:

at Media's Towne House Restaurant, 'The Colony Cocktail Club' 117 Veterans Square, Media Pa 19063.  Scheduled to arrive close to 2:30pm

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