Ellen Greanias' Obituary
Ellen Stavropoulos Greanias passed away on November 11, 2020 at 93 years old.
Ellen was born on April 4, 1927 in Tripolis, Greece to Peter and Fannie Stavropoulos. The eldest of 5 children, she spent her formative years singing with her siblings, reading and writing poetry. She loved learning and languages, and was proficient in French, Greek and English at a young age.
After World War II, her family left Greece and settled in Decatur, IL. There she attended Milliken University, studying sociology, and became an active member in the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church community where she met her husband, Chris Greanias. They married on September 6, 1953, and later had 2 children, Thanea and George.
Ellen had a passion for helping others, working at Illinois Children and Family Services, tutoring at Thanea’s elementary school, and serving as president of Annunciation’s Philoptochos (woman-led philanthropy) chapter. Devoted to her Christian faith and Greek heritage, she filled her days teaching bible school, Sunday school, and Greek School, volunteering on Parish council, singing in the church choir, and working many years at the Stars Over Athens Greek Festival. An avid gardener, she enjoyed hours cultivating flowers and vegetables. She and Chris prioritized community, often welcoming parishioners, friends, and family into their home for delicious food and good company. Ellen will be remembered for the unconditional love she had for her family, as well as her generosity and contagious laugh.
She is preceded in death by her husband Chris, son George, her parents, her three brothers and their spouses: Stanley (Rosemary), Alex (Linda), and Ted (Litza); brothers-in-law Fred and Bill, brothers-in-law and their spouses: Gus (Katy), Nick (Maryanne), Jim (Vera), sister-in-law Amanda (John), and dear friend Dena. Ellen is survived by her daughter Thanea (Mark); grandchildren Katrina (Tyler) and Alex, her sister Vicky, her sister-in-law Bess, and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews. May her memory be eternal.
To keep our community and loved ones safe during the Covid-19 pandemic and adhere to local guidelines, church and grave-site services will be limited to immediate family. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Decatur, IL.
The family of Ellen Greanias has entrusted Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home with her funeral arrangements. Please view her obituary, and share memories and condolences at www.gracelandfairlawn.com
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