Koula Tsiriki Simonson

In Loving Memory of Koula Tsiriki Simonson June 13, 1933 – August 25, 2025

St. Petersburg, Florida

Koula Tsiriki Simonson, born Kiriaki "Koula" Tsiriki on June 13, 1933, in Thessaloniki, Greece, to George Tsiriki and Philomila Leondiadou, lived a life rich with love, faith, and service. Sponsored by her aunt, Louisa Genack, Koula arrived in the United States in the fall of 1955 to pursue her studies. She filed her U.S. Declaration of Intention on February 12, 1959, in Tampa, Florida, marking her journey as an immigrant who embraced her new home while cherishing her Greek heritage.

A devoted member of St. Stefanos Greek Orthodox Church in St. Petersburg, Florida, Koula sang in the choir for 40 years and served in multiple capacities within the church's women's groups. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and her dedication was recognized with the prestigious Archangel Michael Award for embodying the finest qualities and traditions of Greek Orthodox heritage.

Koula's love for cooking and baking was legendary, a gift she joyfully passed on to her grandchildren, teaching them the art of Greek cuisine with patience, pride, and laughter. She was known for serving heaping portions of her delicious dishes, ensuring no one left her table hungry. Her warm smile and generous spirit were matched only by her enveloping hugs, always accompanied by hearty smacks on the back that left everyone feeling loved and cherished. As co-owner of a Greek deli and pastry shop in St. Petersburg alongside Marietta Stefanik for 10+ years, she delighted in feeding her community. Koula also loved to entertain, filling her home with music, laughter, and the warmth of family and friends. She would play lively Greek tunes and host gatherings that brought everyone together, creating cherished memories around her table. Just as she nurtured her loved ones with food and music, her green thumb brought life to countless plants, reflecting her ability to cultivate beauty and growth in all she touched.

Preceded in death by her husband James Simonson, Koula's legacy lives on through her two children, Phyllis Simonson Koehler and James (Jim) Simonson, three grandchildren, Kelly Koehler Brenneman, Dan Koehler, and Whitney Koehler Newell, and six great-grandchildren, who will forever carry their Yiayia's warmth, wisdom, and recipes. A long-time resident of St. Petersburg, she built a life filled with community, tradition, and love, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

In Memoriam - Koula's life was a testament to faith, family, and the joy of giving. Her smile, her songs, her bountiful meals, her unforgettable hugs, and her vibrant gatherings filled with music and love will remain in our hearts. On August 25, 2025, she moved on to spend eternity with the Lord, may her memory be eternal.