Bill Demetri Samaras

William D. Samaras (Bill) 95, passed away peacefully at home on April 28th, 2025. He was born in Akron, Ohio, on May 22,1929 to Anna and Demetre Samaras.

Photography was Bill’s passion throughout his life beginning at a young age. He began his career at the Akron Beacon Journal after graduating from Kent State University (1952) with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He was an award-winning photographer and had received many accolades throughout his career. After 15 years as a news photographer, he became self-employed and photographed hundreds of weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, and other social events around the greater Akron area. His camera never left his side as he documented a multitude of family gatherings, birthdays, and holidays over the years. One of his later-life accomplishments was the completion of his book featuring his photographs of his nephew, John Belushi and the Samaras family. He dedicated the book to the love of his life Mary Ann, in her memory.

Bill first met Mary Ann while she was working at Western Union and then again by coincidence at a bus stop, where he asked her out on a date. They married in 1957 and celebrated 35 years together before her passing in 1992.

In his later years, Bill suffered from dementia but still had a strong will and a desire to remain active. His granddaughter Erika and his son Bill helped care for him so that he could remain in his home, where he was most at peace. The family is also grateful for his long-time caregivers, Laurie and Terri, and their compassionate care.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann, and son Tom, who succeeded him in the family photography business. Bill is survived by his son, Bill Jr. of Akron, son John (Katreva) of Seattle, WA, daughter Karen (Jeff) McMahan of North Canton, daughter-in-law, Ruth Ann Samaras of Green, his grandchildren: Erika Katherine, Michael, Kristin, Austin, and Stella, and his beloved cat, Sammy.

Friends and family may acknowledge his life by visiting family members THURSDAY, May 1 from 5-8 pm at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd., Fairlawn, OH 44333. A funeral service will be held on FRIDAY, May 2 at 12:30 pm, also at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, with a burial following at the Holy Cross Cemetery where he will be laid to rest.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Greek Annunciation Church of Akron, 129 S. Union St. Akron, OH 44304.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Rd. Fairlawn, OH 44333