Mary "Chiavaras" Samaras

In more than a century of living, Mary Samaras bore witness to sweeping historical change and the timeless rhythms of family joys and sorrows. These experiences shaped not only the beloved woman she became, but the luminous presence for which she was known - graceful, wise, inspiring and quietly elegant. Her legacy will be defined by perseverance and forward thinking, and by the way she challenged each of us-with care and consistency-to become the very best version of ourselves. We remember Mary not only for the life she lived, but for the quiet strength and kindness she brought to those around her. It is here we remember her and say thank you for all she was, all she did, and all she meant to everyone whose life she touched.

Mary Samaras passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025, with her loving family by her side. She leaves behind her devoted son, Charles Samaras, and her cherished daughter, Nikki Samaras Deary. Mary was the beloved wife of Spiro Charles Samaras, and the mother of the late Cynthia Samaras, whose memory remained a tender part of Mary's heart.

Born in 1921 in Clinton, Massachusetts, Mary was the sixth of eight children born to Stamati and Nikki Chiavaras, who emigrated from Pyrgos, Ilias, Greece with hopes for a better life and a deep devotion to family and Greek traditions. The values they carried across the ocean would take root in their children-including Mary-and continue to shape the lives of the generations that followed.

Mary was pre-deceased by her loved sisters Angela Panichas, Photo Zangles and Stephanie Chiavaras, brothers Peter, James, Daniel, George and John Chiavaras and sister-in-law Angie Sambatakos.

Mary's love will live on in the hearts of her many nieces and nephews from the Chiavaras, Kokkalis, and Wellen families, the godchildren she lovingly welcomed over the years, the children of Ted and Dorothy Pliakas, and her dear neighbors James and Paul.

Mary's professional career began in 1963 at New England Telephone Company/AT&T, retiring in 1985. In 1989, she joined her daughter Cynthia, owner of Inlingua Language Services and Boston Translation Company and retired once again in 2009 at the young age of 88 years old.

Throughout her years in Rhode Island, Mary was a devoted member of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Cranston, Rhode Island. She gave her time passionately and generously, serving as Sunday School teacher and in the choir as well as a member of the Good Samaritan Chapter of the Philoptochos Society and the Daughters of Penelope. She also represented the parish as a delegate to seven national Clergy-Laity Congresses. What mattered most to her was the parish's Endowment Fund, which she believed was key to the church's strength and future. She served on its committee faithfully until her passing. In recognition of her decades of service, Mary was selected by her parish for the Laity Award presented by the Metropolis of Boston-an honor reflecting her commitment to her faith that she carried throughout her life.

Mary's family extends their heartfelt thanks to Father Andrew George and Father Nick Lanzourakis, whose care and presence meant so much over the years. They are also deeply grateful to the many parish friends who kept Mary close with kind calls, thoughtful cards, sweet treats, and visits that brightened her days. Most of all, the joyful car parade for her 100th birthday was a moment of pure love and joy-one she treasured deeply, and one her family and neighbors will never forget.

And of course-because it was so much a part of who she was-we would be remiss not to mention Mary's steadfast dedication to healthy living. Long before it was common practice, she embraced organic foods and vitamins, always believing in their power to support a better life. Over the years, even the most skeptical voices came around; physicians sought her advice, and family, friends, and strangers alike turned to her for guidance. One can never be certain, but it's easy to wonder if her devotion to wellness played a role in her remarkable longevity.

As her final years gently unfolded, Mary-ever the optimist-continued to share the lessons she held closest. With clarity and grace, she reminded us of what truly matters: love, kindness, and the quiet strength of a life well lived. We close this memorial with the words she wished to leave behind, a parting gift from her heart to ours.

To her cherished nieces and nephews, she offered this blessing: "Let the beautiful legacy of love, kindness, and understanding that our family has nurtured continue until we all meet again in Heaven." Her hope was not just for remembrance, but for continuation-for the spirit of family to endure and uplift.

To her beloved friends, neighbors, church community, and the wider world, Mary shared the guiding words she tried to live by each day. Quoting poet Etienne de Grellet (1773–1855), she reminded us: "I shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again." These words were not just a reflection-they were her daily practice.

Thank you, Mary, for the love you gave so freely, the wisdom you carried so gently, and the legacy you leave behind. May your memory be eternal.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Parish of Greater Providence, 175 Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston RI 02920 with the funeral service to be held at the church the following day at 10:00 am. The funeral service will be available for livestream viewing via YouTube or Facebook. Burial will be at Swan Point Cemetery, Providence, RI. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Annunciation Greek Church Endowment Fund in her memory.

Arrangements by "WOODLAWN" Funeral Home, Cranston RI. Please share memories and condolences at www.woodlawnri.com.