Tom Pappas

Athanasios "Tommy" Panagiotopoulos, 71, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, December 2, 2024.
Born on December 29, 1952, in Loganikos, Greece, Tom was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Elias and Eleni Panagiotopoulos, and father-in-law, Michael Stefanidis. He is survived by his devoted wife, Kathy Pappas; his loving sons, Louie Pappas (Vickie) and Michael Pappas (Melanie); and his cherished grandchildren, Kaliopi, Dina, Athan, Tommy, Costa, George, and Elias. Tom is also survived by his brothers, George Panagiotopoulos (Alta), Peter Panagiotopoulos (Elda), and John Panagiotopoulos (Keti); his sister, Dimitra Roumbos (Panagioti); his mother-in-law, Maria Stefanidis; his brother-in-law, George Stefanidis; and his sister-in-law, Demetra Stefanidis. He will be deeply missed by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
After graduating from high school in Sparta, Greece, Tom attended vocational school to study accounting. He proudly served his country in the Greek Army for two years. In 1976, a fateful vacation in Greece brought Tom and Kathy together, and they were married shortly thereafter. In 1977, they immigrated to the United States, where they built a life together centered around family near and far.
In 1989, Tom and Kathy opened Tommy's Diner. Through their hard work and dedication, they transformed the diner into a local favorite and beloved Columbus institution. Tom was incredibly proud of their accomplishment and often credited Kathy's unwavering belief in his dreams as a key factor in their success.
Tom was a dedicated member of the Greek community, serving as a longtime chair of the Greek Festival and holding various positions on the Parish Council through the years. Tom was known as an ambassador of the Greek Festival, hosting numerous politicians who visited the event. He was a generous philanthropist, always willing to lend a helping hand.
A pillar of the Franklinton community, Tom was an active supporter of several local organizations. He was known for his kindness and generosity, often providing meals and job opportunities to those in need. Tom was also a passionate fan of the Cincinnati Bengals and Ohio State Buckeyes.
His family, however, was at the heart of Tom's life and his greatest joy. He was a fiercely proud husband, father and grandfather who loved spending time with his grandchildren. From sporting events, special dinner dates, weekend sleepovers to traveling together, Tom cherished every opportunity to be with them. Every Saturday morning, they eagerly awaited Pappou's arrival with doughnuts in his hands. His love for his family was limitless.
Viewing hours will be held on Sunday from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral, located at 555 N. High St. in Columbus, Ohio. Where funeral service will be held on Monday morning at 10:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Annunciation Greek Church in Columbus, OH.