Aristea Argyriou

Aristea "Aris" Argyriou, a beacon of love and warmth, passed away peacefully of natural causes on November 28, 2025, in Hanover Township, New Jersey, surrounded by her adoring family. Born on the idyllic island of Salamis, Greece, on January 5, 1932, Aris brought the vibrant spirit of her homeland with her when she later settled in the United States.
Aris's life was characterized by her dedication to her loved ones and her faith. As the wife of Kostas Argyriou, she was a partner in every sense, providing a foundation of support and care that extended far beyond their immediate family. Aris was a cherished mother to her son, John Argyriou, and a loving mother-in-law to Amanda Argyriou. Her role as "Yiayia," the endearing Greek term for grandmother, was one she embraced with every fiber of her being, showering John Paul and Justin Argyriou, along with their spouses, Brittany and Christina, respectively, with unconditional love and attention. The joy of her great-granddaughters, Magnolia and Sienna Argyriou, was a source of immeasurable pride and happiness.
Aris's family tree was a testament to her heart's capacity, filled also with affection for her siblings and their spouses - the late Chris Kafantaris, Margie Kafantaris, Despina and Steve Plemenos, Stamatina and David Rice, and Nicholas Kafantaris and Millie Martino. Each relationship was nurtured with the same love and tenderness that so naturally emanated from her.
Professionally, Aristea had a successful career as an International Manager with Cargill, Inc., bringing her expertise and grace to the company's New York branch. Her educational background, which included an Associate's Degree in Accounting from NYU, informed her meticulous and thoughtful approach to her work, traits that she transferred to all aspects of her life.
Aris was a devout Christian, her faith guiding her through the decades with quiet strength and humility. She lived her life in a manner that echoed the famous words of Mother Teresa, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." Indeed, this philosophy was evident in her passion for cooking, needlepoint, knitting, and, most of all, in the care she lavished upon her family and especially her grandchildren.
Those who knew Aristea will remember her as a loving, thoughtful, and spirited individual. Her actions spoke volumes, and her legacy of kindness and generosity will be felt for generations. She had a gift for making the ordinary feel extraordinary, and her absence will leave a space that cannot be filled but can be cherished through memories and the continuous echo of her influence on all she touched.
As the sun sets on Aristea's life, we realize that her spirit, like the sun's light, will never truly fade. It will continue to brighten the lives of those she loved, a cherished memory that will never dim. Aris Argyriou will be deeply missed yet forever remembered for the life she lived and the love she gave.