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Georgia M. Vlahos
1943 - 2014
Georgia M. Vlahos
1943 - 2014
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1943
DIED
2014
Georgia Vlahos Obituary
November 8, 1943 - August 15, 2014
Resident of San Leandro
In loving memory of Georgia Vlahos (Miss Vlahos) a lifelong resident of San Leandro, who was granted angel wings on August 15, 2014. She fought a valiant battle with cancer over 17 years. She was born in San Leandro, youngest daughter of Mike and Antonia Vlahos, owners of Blue Bird Sweet Shop and then Plaza Tavern in San Leandro. She graduated from San Leandro High School in 1961 and then attended Cal-State Hayward, a Speech/Drama major with an English minor. In the summer of 1968, she arrived at St. Joseph's Boys High School to interview for her first teaching job. She was to become the speech teacher and coach the debate team. With interest in debate waning she focused her talents in Drama and directed many plays and taught English at St. Joseph Notre Dame. Soon she realized she was spending more time helping students with personal problems so she returned to school to complete her Master's Degree in Counseling. She was a teacher and counselor, dearly loved and appreciated by her students, she taught at St. Josephs' Notre Dame for 38 years (1968-2006). She said, "Laughter is what gets me through the day". Georgia was a vibrant light and her brightness and love filled up the room, she was an inspiration to her family, friends, and many students whose lives are forever touched by her love, boundless energy, enthusiasm, curiosity and witty sense of humor. She had a dazzling personality and brought happiness, laughter and smiles to all. She won the hearts and souls of all she met. Though she never married or had children of her own, her love of mankind and the thousands of students who were touched by her loving care and attention; she gave her best every day to all who were lucky enough to encounter her. Whether you knew her 5 minutes, 5 years, or 50 years, her deep compassion and love of all overcame you with a sense of belonging and understanding. She impacted so many lives. She was the life of the party: loved theater, music, books-especially -science fiction, movies, swimming, singing, dancing and to travel; as well as her coffee friends at Zocalo's. She traveled to Europe many times but her favorite was her Greek parent's village of Kyparissi. She leaves behind her greatest hopes, dreams and joy to her family, friends and students. She had a way of making you feel you were the most important person in the world and she left this world a better place by her love, deep care and concern. We will miss and cherish the wonderful memories you gave us and you will remain forever in our hearts. She is survived by her sister, Anne Sarris of San Jose, Clara Meniktas of Castro Valley. Aunt to Dede De Michele and Toni Kalogrides of San Jose, Anna Meniktas-Edwards of Concord, Dean Meniktas of Moraga and Michael Meniktas of San Francisco. Great Aunt to Marty De Michele, Maria Indalos, Joey and JR De Michele, Demetra Kalogrides, Alex Kalogrides, Georgia Barnes, Alexandra Meniktas, Natalie Meniktas, Claire Meniktas, and Melina Meniktas. Please join us in celebrating the Life and Times of Georgia Vlahos. Family, friends and former students are invited to attend the Trisagion (Wake) Service on Thursday, August 21, at 7 pm and the funeral memorial service on Friday, August 22nd at 10:30 am. Both services will be held at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension on at 4700 Lincoln Avenue in Oakland, California. All are invited to the luncheon to follow after the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her name to St. Joseph Notre Dame Tuition Endowment Fund 1011 Chestnut Street, Alameda CA 94501; Breast Cancer Fund 1388 Sutter Street #400 San Francisco, CA 94109; or the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension. In the memo of the section of your check please note "In Memory of Georgia Vlahos". Please visit www. Santos-Robinson.com for details regarding the service, celebration and sign guest book. Please feel free to sign the Memories book and add any memories or photos of Georgia. If you are planning on attending the Luncheon after the Memorial Service it would be greatly appreciated if you would notify the family by sending an email to [email protected].
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Jacqueline Eliopoulos
August 15, 2024
So many memories from so many students and friends. Ten years on and the memories do not fade. One more Opa! on this Panayias from the little beach she loved in Kyparissi this morning. The memories are forever Georgia. Opa!
Jenifer Levy-Wendt
August 13, 2024
I think about Georgia and my 7 or 8 years working with her, and continuing our friendship in her retirement. I'm always struck by her warm smile, her sense of humor, and how we shared our dreams(literally) with each other. She was a special person in my life.
Arthur Wong
April 15, 2024
Both Tom& I attended the University of Calirnia- Berkeley . My Deepest condolences to the entireVlahos family. Stay Strong.
Ellen Beconcini Ramirez
August 13, 2022
I and my deceased husband, Ignacio Ramirez both had her as our teacher at sjnd. She was always witty ,funny and caring. Even at that age, I thought she perfect in her role, as a confidant to so many and a strong guide thru our teenage years. May she rest in peace and know how she affected so many lives into our adulthood.
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Ellen and Anthony Ramirez
August 14, 2021
Ignacio ,Anthony ( our son) and myself all were in a class taught by Ms. Vlajos at some point . She was a wonderful person and teacher.
Robert Gannon, MDiv, MS
August 4, 2021
One of the most caring teachers I taught with. In my 8 years at SJND she was consistently an outstanding person. I often thought of her and wondered where she was. Now I know for sure. with care and prayer, Mr. Gannon 78-86
Jim Ferris
August 17, 2020
You were one of few teachers who not only taught subjects but mostly reached out to students and became their trusted friend. You are truly missed.
Jim Ferris
August 13, 2019
I will always remember Miss Vlahos as a friendly, bubbly person who brought joy to teaching. May you Rest In Peace. Jim Ferris class of 1973
Joanna Loder class of 77
September 3, 2014
Although I did not have Ms. Vlahos when I attended SJND....she was known to all... and knew all. She would speak to me in the yard as if we had just left a class of hers. Ive read the guest book entries...and there are no more words to describe her.. everyone has described her perfectly. You will be missed Ms. V. just keep an eye on all of us while your in heaven, and continue to help guide us from above.
August 24, 2014
My name is Amber Lamphier and I work at the Carlton Plaza where Georgia lived for a short while she was going through treatment. Georgia touched the lives of so many here with her spirit and excitement for life. I feel very blessed to have met such an inspirational woman and I send my condolences to all of her family and friends. Many of our residents here and staff wanted to also share some words and well wishes so I have included them below:
To the dearest relatives and friends of Georgia –
I want to express my deepest sympathies in the death of Georgia. She was such a kind loving lady! We all loved her here at the Carlton Plaza. I will never forget her! She has a very special place in my heart, may she now rest in peace! I know Jesus loves her very much!! I lovingly wish my prayers to a very cherished friend!
Mary K. Adams
To Georgia –
She was a wonderful Gal. I sympathized with her as I had undergone chemotherapy and tried to give her a few tips. I stopped by her house a few weeks after she left Carlton and had a nice chat. She will be missed. What a wonderful full life she had. I know she is in good hands now, free of pain and anxiety. My prayers are with the family.
Alma Drown
Lots of love and prayers in remembrance of a very special person changed others lives for good. Love and blessings.
Ginny Wakefield
In the period of time Georgia was with us at Carlton Plaza I was inspired by her valiant spirit and positive attitude. She was cheerful, didn't refer to her illness and planned to return for a visit. In reading her beautiful obituary I was pleased to learn of her fulfilling life, of her achievements, travel and of the love and appreciation she received from family, friends and students. She had an impact on our lives too and left us with happy memories of love and friendship.
Marion McSweeney
I have never met a more wonderful person as Georgia. She always had a smile – never complaining – she gave love to everyone, especially me. My prayers are with her and to her wonderful family.
Jerry Johansen
Dear Georgia's relatives,
I want to express my sympathy, Georgia was a wonderful person!
Lorraine Peterson
Georgia you were a fine example for Greek girls! I love you!
Vangie Peterson
To Georgia's family and friends,
I offer my deepest sympathy. It was a great honor to have met Georgia. She was a truly kind and beautiful person. I feel blessed to have known her and I'm sure she touched all of you in a very special way.
Rosalind Davis
Georgia was an unbelievably sweet lady. In the short time that she sat at our table we enjoyed her company, her humor, her intellect and her companionship. God bless this angel.
Michael and Mary Ann Morrisroe
Dear Family of Georgia,
My deepest sympathy! She was a very sweet lady. We all at Carlton Plaza loved her! Blessings to all of you.
Mary Lou Smith
Saying goodbye is so hard when losing a friend and neighbor. We are going to miss her even though we became friends such a short time.
Helen Tennant
Also wanting to express their condolences are:
Margie Cook
Blanche Maulet
Al and Mivy Wise
Nicholas Soffiotto
Shirley Ashley
Winny Moser
Eleni Koutsoukis
August 24, 2014
Georgia, When I first came to this country from Greece scared, little English,and homesick, you took me under your wings and became my first real friend. Throughout the years, even without seeing one another for long periods of time, you always remembered me. You are one of the rare ones, an angle. I love you always
Leslie Donoviel
August 23, 2014
Georgia, you helped me so much during the worst part of my life, I will love and miss you so much. Just knowing that I can't talk to you or see you again fills me with grief. You are in heaven now and will be smiling on us from above. Rest in peace dear friend
Maureen
August 21, 2014
It has been a long time since high school but you never forget someone like Ms. Vlahos, wonderful person and teacher, she will always be remembered!
sana Ishaq khoury
August 21, 2014
I graduated from the Class of 84 and had the pleasure of being one of Ms.V's students. And as my high school years surpassed me, what I remember most was Ms.V.
I always believed that all her students were her joy, and quite on the contrary, she was our joy, and delight. The last time I saw Ms. V was with Mrs. Luedtke on my wedding, and though its been 29 years, I was so very grateful to find her and become friends with her on Facebook. I had the opportunity to enjoy several great conversations with her through messaging. Ms. V's graceful acknowledgement of her students seemed to come from a different era. She genuinely cared. Every time I conversed with her, I would consider myself truly blessed of having had a genuinely humble teacher who cared for me, even 29 years later. Now,I repay her with the constant sweet message that she would always write to me, which is this: "I have such special memories of you! You are a kukla! OPA!" And with that Ms. V, may your memory always be eternal...I wont forget your sweet and beautiful soul, and your unconditional care towards me. Opa!" May your blessed memory be eternal!
Bridget Holgerson Rae
August 21, 2014
The world has lost a true original...
One of a kind!!!
I will be forever grateful to have had her in my life. I only hope that my kids will have a teacher in their lives that will encourage and support them in school and beyond as Miss Vlahos did. It was always such a joy to see her. She remembered every student she ever taught and treated them as if they were her only student.
I loved her dearly and will never forget her!!!
Rest now Miss V.
Martha Quintero Espinoza, '80
August 21, 2014
Rest in Peace Ms. Vlahos, and may you continue to make the angels in heaven laugh like you did with all of us here on earth! You will be missed, but never forgotten! Blessing to your family!
Maria Morales
August 21, 2014
I will be forever grateful. Out of my shell and into the world, head held high and the voice and confidence Ms. Vlahos brought out of me. My prayers to her family. Maria Morales, Class of 1978
Patrick Gadlin class of 84
August 20, 2014
Mrs. Vlahos. You will be missed by many students that have crossed your desk. We all cherish the time we got to spend with you and we know you are truly one of God's greatest creations. He welcomes you home.
Judy French, SJND '79
August 20, 2014
"Hail to thee blithe spirit!" -- memories of your smile and warmth reach across the years to touch me still. I will never forget your marvelous touch with drama, but what I will remember most is how you put up with us crazy kids in Speech class -- allowing us to be ourselves and have moments of sheer lunacy. Bless you for all that. Blessings and love to your family at this time.
August 20, 2014
Rest in Paradise Ms. Vlahos, you not only taught me but, you were always a listening ear during the troubling teen years. You will never be forgotten. My condolences to your family and friends.
Karen Parker Cheadle, Class of 72
Colleen O'Connor
August 20, 2014
Ms. Vlahos inspired us with her wisdom, compassion and joy for life. She sparked our imaginations. Her spirit will live on in generations of students. May she rest in peace.
Ellen Ramirez
August 19, 2014
Georgia Vlahos touched so many lives with her wonderful positive way. She was a teacher and counselor to my husband, myself,our children,my husband,s brothers and sister,and many cousins on both sides ! We all loved her.
kim kidd
August 19, 2014
Mrs. Georgia Vlahos , you will be missed dearly, you were a inspiration to have and be around at SJND thank you for all the talks and guidance you shared with all your students. you will be missed by many and loved by many . class of 02, class of 92
Tom Dlugosz
August 19, 2014
Such a gentle and generous soul. I am privileged to have known her and to call her my colleague and friend.
Richard Danyluk
August 19, 2014
Georgia created a space in her heart for me and for you. In that space I found a heart of love, non judgment,and joy. Her star shone brightly over SJND and the dawn of better days brightened our lives. With my love and gratitude, my life is richer because of our paths crossing and hearts touching. Fr Rich
Robin Maes
August 19, 2014
May God bless you and your family
joe g
August 19, 2014
MS. VLAHOS YOU HELPED ME REACH FOR THE STARS AND NOW YOU ARE THERE. THANK YOU..
Deborah (Simoni) DeMasse-Snell, '73
August 19, 2014
My dear Miss Vlahos--you kept me sane during my years at SJND. I learned so much from you, and I owe you so much for taking an interest in me. You were my refuge in a sea of tumult! May you rest in peace, now, ever watching over all of us who loved you the moment we met you!
Christina (Castle) Reich
August 19, 2014
R.I.P. Miss Vlahos. You were a fabulous teacher and mentor. The Class of 1981 holds you forever in our hearts! <3
Ken Barrow
August 19, 2014
What words can be said about a teacher that made such an impact on your life? I was truly blessed to have Miss Vlahos for a speech and debate coach, an English teacher, a director in the school plays and we shared our love of science fiction as well. Miss Vlahos was that teacher whose influence went way beyond the classroom. Every time I get up to speak, every time I got up to perform on stage, there's a little bit of “Miss V” there. My sincerest condolences to her family. There never has been, nor will there ever be a teacher like her.
August 19, 2014
Miss V.
I will always remember being in your drama class when you asked me to try out for "Grease". I chuckled, you said it would be fun, it was, and I have loved theatre and musicals ever since.
Thanks for making a difference in my life.
Larry Contier 79'
August 19, 2014
I can't believe that our dear friend Georgia is gone. Her parents and mine were friends for many years, and Georgia and I often spoke of the friendship that came down to us. She was a remarkable person who always had a smile for everyone even though she was in pain herself. She made the world a better place just being in it. God Bless you.
Joe and Jackie Montero Flynn
Kristin Demoro '84
August 19, 2014
You got me through high school with a smile on your face. I know you are remembered by all your students as a positive and loving influence. Sorry to hear you passed so soon.
Jenifer Levy-Wendt
August 19, 2014
Georgia, I miss you and will share dreams with you always. To her family, she loved you all so much. To her SJND family, she loved serving you, knowing you, teaching you. She simply loved life.
Karyl Croach
August 18, 2014
Ms Vlahos
You were dearly loved as a person and as a teacher. One of my favorites. Love and miss you. Say "hi" to my brother Terry and take care of each other.
Tom Daleke
August 18, 2014
I'm lighting a candle for you, in honor of all the candles you lit on your way...
Tom Daleke '79
Jim, his sister Ann and our dogs Sadie & Ripley
Jim Ferris
August 18, 2014
To the best teacher I've ever known. Georgia's influence led me to receive the top award in Toastmasters, Distinguished Toastmaster. She will always be a big part of my life.
Jim Ferris, class of 1973
Tom Daleke
August 18, 2014
Like so, so many others, Miss V (as she will always be known) had such a profoundly positive influence on my life. She taught me Speech, English and Drama during my four years at St. Joe's, but I learned so much more from her than the material she taught. She was extraordinary, in the proper sense of the word.
"...the powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse." Her verses have been writ large.
My condolences to the family--know that I, as one of thousands of her students, will carry her with me through my own life, writing my own verse.
Thank you, Miss V.
Susan Abrami-Seeley
August 18, 2014
Loving memory of a very special person that will live on in the lives of all the souls she touched
Cindy Graybeal
August 18, 2014
I met Georgia when she came to me for massage therapy, when I lived in San Leandro. We became wonderful friends, laughing, helping one another for many many years. She spoke often of her sisters Anna and Clara, her love of her parents and her students! I will miss her! I will hear your laughter always!!
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Marte' Classes 85' & 87'
August 18, 2014
May the memories heal the hearts that mourn. Rest in peace.
Christina Giacomelli Poggio (Class of 1979)
August 18, 2014
My sincerest condolences to the entire family. Miss Vlahos was my drama teacher for 2 years while I was at Notre Dame. She helped me to become more confident through acting and was a true friend and mentor. I looked forward to her class the most and was fortunate to have been part of several plays. Two of my kids were lucky enough to have had her as their counselor and I like to think she played a part in my daughter becoming a teacher. Her bight, infectious personality always shined through. There is no one I have met like her, and I don't expect I will ever come across anyone in this lifetime who's even close. Everyone should strive to be like her. I will miss her. She was and IS truly an angel and I am glad she is finally at peace and out of pain.
Erica "95
August 18, 2014
So many visits to your office during my SJND years- You made me feel so special with your wonderful smile, I am sure i spent way too much of your time but I am very thankful. I was so happy to bump into you not too long ago - to think you lived just blocks away from me- it was a pleasure to chat with you. We will miss you dearly>
Jason Rupertus
August 18, 2014
Worked Georgia for two years at SJND. Amazingly positive and loving person. My condolences to all her family and closest friends. She will truly be missed
Kristina Taylor
August 18, 2014
I was blessed to be hired at SJND for the 2002-2003 school year, 13 years later I am still here. One of the first people I meet was Georgia, we all know we loved her from that first hello! Georgia was a miraculous woman and I treasure our friendship. She inspired everyone, loved everyone, believed in everyone, and wanted the very best for us all. Georgia retired in 2006 but we remained close, when I was diagnosed with cancer in 2007 Georgia and I talked in detail about our struggles and was an integral part of my survival. I will miss you my dear, but know you are at peace! Opa!
Amanda '95
August 18, 2014
Miss Vlahos, it always felt like you saw each of us and celebrated us. You lifted my mood every time I saw you, everytime I thought of you. You always will!
Jacqueline Eliopoulos
August 18, 2014
Leaving Kyparissi the day befoe I had the distinct feeling that Georgia was leaving with us. Her spirit had been so strong there for the last few weeks. Just a few hours before I had been swimming in the warm silken waters on the little beach that she so loved. She couldn't have been more there with us than if she had been in person beside us. That she has gone to the Panayia on Panayia's own memorial day is most fitting; it means Georgia will be remembered always on Panayias with the music and the dancing and the good food that Georgia loved. One last OPA! for our beloved cousin and dear dear friend.
Santos-Robinson Mortuary
August 17, 2014
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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