Irene P. Leontarakis

On September 30, 2025, Irene Parashou Leontarakis bid farewell to the world. A bright and beautiful beacon of faith, compassion, and unwavering in strength, she passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. Born into a world of challenges, she and her seven sisters were orphaned at a young age. Yet, these hardships forged an undeniable faith in God that became the bedrock of her life. This faith gave her the tremendous strength, wisdom, and perseverance to face any obstacle, and most of all, it nurtured the kindest heart, always brimming with love and concern for others.

In the late 1950s, she embarked on a new journey, immigrating to America. Here, she met and married the late Gus Leontarakis. She was a hard worker, saving her earnings diligently, which enabled them to purchase their first business, laying the foundation for their family's future.

As a loving mother, she dedicated her life to her family. Her strength was undeniable, her faith in God unwavering. She exuded a lightness and goodness that touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She taught her children to lead their lives with goodness, compassion, and respect for others. Though she imparted many invaluable lessons, she never prepared them for a world without her in their daily lives.

A true inspiration and a devout servant of God, she knew that no matter the circumstances, God would lead the way. Her devotion was reflected in her tireless efforts to help others. She anonymously assisted people, baptized children across the world into the Greek Orthodox faith, and humbly promoted the funding of new churches, spreading the message of love and faith far and wide.

She found joy in reading, singing, and embracing the beauty of nature and all the blessings that God provided. Her love for these simple pleasures enriched her life and the lives of those around her.

Her life's mission was a testament to the power of faith and the importance of compassion. She lived her life as an example of what it means to be a true servant of God, always extending a helping hand and a kind heart to those in need. Irene leaves behind a profound impact on the lives she touched and a legacy of unwavering faith and boundless love.

When you remember her, let the light of her pure goodness and love fill your hearts with joy and bring a smile to your face, for that is what she did in life and will continue to do in the afterlife. Above all, may she be remembered as a mighty little Spartan warrior, with a giant heart filled with love which she shared with the entire world.

Irene will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the countless lives she influenced. Her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, reminding us of the power of faith, the importance of family, and the enduring strength of love.

Her legacy includes her most treasured children George (Maria) Leontarakis, Patricia Leontarakis, Evellyn (Steve, predeceased) Tsiadis, Georgia (John) Papanastasiou; grandchildren George Mavrookas, Kosta, Alexandra, Alina and Niko Leontarakis, Vasilia, Irene and Dimitri Papanastasiou, great grandson Leonidas Mavrookas, as well as sisters, cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. George Greek Orthodox Church Memorial Fund, 1101 River Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854 or Evangelismos Greek Orthodox Church, 661 Montgomery Street, Jersey City, NJ 07306, in her memory, continuing her mission of spreading love and faith to those in need.

Viewing will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025 from 10:00 am - 11:30 am at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 1101 River Road, Piscataway, NJ with the funeral immediately thereafter. A memorial luncheon will be held at the Pines Manor for all to attend.

These were the words our precious manoula entrusted to us, and now we pass them on, as her lasting gift to all.

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