James "Jimmy" Pakis

James "Jimmy" Pakis (a.k.a. Demetrios Patsourakis), beloved husband, father, grandfather and soccer coach to many, passed away peacefully in his home on May 26, 2025, in the home he built in Morganville, NJ, at the age of 93. Born on April 17, 1932, in Peristeri, Greece. Jimmy immigrated from Greece to the USA in the early 1950's, legally changing his name to James Pakis.
A devoted Greek Orthodox Christian, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend and soccer coach, Jimmy was a man of unwavering strength, deep faith, and boundless love. A proud Greek, his life was rooted in tradition, guided by faith, and devoted to family. He lived each day with purpose, humility, and a heart full of gratitude for the blessings he held dear.
Born with a spirit of determination and resilience, Jimmy was a charismatic, relentless, tenacious man, with an unmatched fire for life. He was also a man of great humor, wisdom, and compassion.
Jimmy found great pride in his work as a general contractor. His passion became a legacy, as a hardworking entrepreneur and respected businessman, he built his success from the ground up through vision, discipline, perseverance and execution. His accomplishments included becoming a U.S. citizen, a milestone he cherished as a symbol of freedom, opportunity, and new beginnings.
But his greatest joy was his family. A loving and devoted husband, he stood as a steady partner and source of strength. As a father and grandfather, he led by example, teaching the value of hard work, honesty, and faith. He was a beloved brother, loyal friend and beloved soccer coach to many, Jimmy was always ready with a helping hand or words of encouragement. In his later years he would cherish every moment he had with his three granddaughters, whom he loved more than anything
Jimmy is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Irene, their two sons, Nicholas Pakis and Andrew Pakis, Nicholas' wife, Eleni, and their three daughters.
Jimmy's service will be held on Thursday, May 29, from 11 – 12 noon, at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Sadowski Parkway, Perth Amboy, NJ. Burial to follow at 1:00 pm at Marlboro Memorial Cemetery, Rt. 79, Morganville, NJ. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James "Jimmy" Pakis, please visit our Tree Store.