Manuel Galifianakis Jr.

We mark the passing of Manuel (Mike) Galifianakis on October 4, 2025, at the age of 95, with quiet gratitude for a life that steadied and brightened our own. He met people with smiling eyes and an easy laugh, and he chose the good without calculation, as if there were no other way to walk through the world. He carried his Greek Orthodox faith as a compass rather than a ledger, and he moved with an honor that did not depend on an audience.

Mike was born on August 4, 1930, in Durham, North Carolina, to Manuel (Mike) and Sophia Galifianakis, Greek immigrants from the island of Crete. He grew up on laughter, hard work, and the kind of familial devotion that later became the signature of his own home.

Shaped by that ethic, he played football at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and answered his country's call during the Korean War by enlisting in the U.S. Navy and serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Lake Champlain. While stationed in Mayport, Florida, a Catholic Youth Organization dance changed the course of his life. There he met Frances Canto, the great love who would accompany him through 67 years of marriage.

In the life they built together, Mike became a trusted presence in the tile and marble world, marrying logistical know-how with a craftsman's eye. That same steady devotion shaped his faith, and he received the Archangel Michael honor: recognition of an Orthodox Christian life lived in spiritual devotion, service, stewardship, and sacrifice.

The measure of that life is felt most in those who remain: he is survived by his beloved wife, Frances; their children, Manuel (Mike) Galifianakis III; Sophia Galifianakis; Pauline Galifianakis Vogel (Bill); Frank Galifianakis (Katie); and Anna Galifianakis Bradford (Hal); and by his grandchildren: Nicholas Vogel, Max Vogel, Hal Steven (HB) Bradford III, Sophia Bradford, Allie Galifianakis, and Zach Bradford.

He is also survived by his brothers Peter and John Galifianakis. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his brothers Nick and Harry, whom he missed dearly. 

Alongside those names, what many remember first is his presence: Mike's jovial warmth and quick wit often made him the natural choice to emcee weddings and fundraisers. Yet, in a family that does not lack for people willing to take center stage, he was just as happy to cheer us on from the sidelines with pride and affection, delighting in our lives and accepting us in our humanity.

That same generosity filled his home: together, Mike and Frances made a gathering place that became the center of their extended family. If you were new, you were made to feel instant belonging. If you were a friend, you knew constancy. If you were family, you felt the warm certainty of love.

And yet, none of the above can fully capture "Manolaki," the son; "Mike," the brother, husband, in-law and friend; "Dad," the father; "Uncle Mike" to his adoring nieces and nephews; and "Papou" to his wonderful grandchildren.

His was a goodness you didn't measure so much as feel - being gathered in, seen without having to perform, heard without interruption, and loved without condition. You left his presence a little lighter, steadier, more yourself.

He told the truth with gentleness and faced difficulty without wilting; he saw things clearly without unkindness, giving his time and attention as if they were the most natural gifts a person could offer. No one who was loved by Mike could mistake it for anything less.

Mike Galifianakis was a man of deep faith whose example leaves us walking a little more softly, with more affection, more compassion, and deeper humility. A testament to the grace he carried and the grace he gave.

And so we reach for the words in his immigrant parents' language:" I miss you" is often rendered as Se anazito. Yet Greek, so ancient and abundant, lets you choose the phrasing that feels truest.

So instead we will say, Mou lipis: "You are missing from me."

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With heartfelt gratitude, the family offers thanks to the caregivers, therapists, and staff who provided Mike with loving care and kindness in these last years.

Funeral services will be held at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation, 2500 Clairmont Rd, Atlanta GA. Visitation in the Narthex will begin at 10 am before the service.

In place of flowers, donations may be made to the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation or to a charity of your choice.