Mary S. Chicos

1936 - 2024

Mary S. Chicos
01/28/1936 - 03/30/2024
Mary entered eternal life on March 30, 2024 at the age of 88 in San Mateo, California. A native of Kokoni, Corinth, Greece, and a resident of San Francisco, born on January 28, 1936, daughter of the late Demetra and Agisilaos Lolos. Mary was a loving wife of 63 years to the late Samuel G. Chicos and mother to the late Demetria Chicos. Mary is survived by her devoted daughters: Anthie Mitropoulos and her husband George; and Tina Vrionis and her husband Gary. She was the cherished grandmother of Victoria Cella and her husband Michael; Elizabeth Mitropoulos and Milton G. Vrionis II; adored great-grandmother of Charlotte Cella and Michael A. Cella, Jr.; treasured sister of the late Ellie Jannings and sister-in-law to the late Emmanuel Jannings; adored sister to Christos Lolos, beloved sister to Mahi Papadopoulos and her husband John; daughter-in-law of the late Anthoula and Gus Chicos. Mary was sister-in-law to Stella Stine and the late Irene Chicos. Mary was predeceased by her "Simbetheri" the late Loula and Nick Mitropoulos, and the late Constance and Milton G. Vrionis. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, Godchildren, and dear friends. She enjoyed a lifelong bond with Tasia Misthos, her best friend of 68 years and was fortunate to have the Poulakidas Family as neighbors for six decades.
At 19, Mary left Greece to pursue her next chapter in San Francisco, where she attended San Francisco City College and San Francisco State College. In 1955 she met Sam at a Greek dance, and in 1956 they married and built a beautiful and meaningful life with family and friends. Mary was a constant support to Sam and the family business at Chicos Market on Nob Hill.
Inspired by her Greek heritage, Mary joined the Daughters of Penelope, EOS #1 in 1963, becoming a dedicated and prominent member and officer on the local, district, and national levels. She was awarded Penelope of the Year in 2002. She organized numerous philanthropic events supporting notable organizations including Agape Dinners for the AHEPA and Daughters. She planned and organized many trips around the world for the Daughters. Among her many achievements, one of Mary's greatest accomplishments was the procurement of the lifesize marble statue of Penelope, by Franklin Simmons, now on permanent collection at the de Young Museum, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Daughters of Penelope founded in San Francisco.
A lifelong learner, Mary effortlessly turned her interests into passions, including cooking, flower arranging, and upholstering furniture. She was a member of Toastmasters International and the National Association of Parliamentarians. She was a dedicated member and past-president of the San Francisco Garden Club for 42 years where she received a Lifetime Achievement Award and served as a docent at the Conservatory of Flowers.
Mary's true joy was found in spending time with her family, creating countless memories filled with love and laughter. Guests were always welcomed at her front door with a warm "Peraste!" She was known to all as an incredible cook and baker of delectables. As a dedicated parishioner of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in San Francisco and chairperson of its 100th anniversary celebration, her faith was an integral part of her life. She was a member and past-president of the parish's Philoptochos. She was also a charter member of the Patriarch Athenagoras Orthodox Institute Women's Board. Mary was the last surviving member of the East Moline Club.
Mary lived long enough to witness the election of her niece, Eleni Kounalakis, as Lt. Governor of California - a proud moment for her.
A special thank you to the staff at Brookside in San Mateo and Dr. Sinha for their gentle and compassionate care during Mary's final days.
A private funeral service is planned. Thank you to all who loved and cherished Mary the way her family did and always will. May Mary's memory be eternal. Memorial donations may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 999 Brotherhood Way, San Francisco, CA 94132, or to the charity of your choice.