John T. Alexander, 88, died on Thursday, September 24th at Mease Countryside Hospital in Safety Harbor, Florida. He was surrounded by family at the time of his passing.
He is survived by his son, Ted Alexander of Holiday, Florida; his sister Pashalia Yantsidis of Worcester; his brother James Alexander of Palm Harbor, Florida; and many relatives and close friends.
Born in Hrisohorafa, Greece on February 5, 1927, John came to America in 1955, with his wife Sophie Papadopoulos Alexander and his young son. John was married to his devoted wife Sophie close to 50 years, before Sophie’s untimely death in 2000.
He was a chef and a restaurant owner by trade. Most notably, the Eden Garden restaurant here in Worcester. He later owned and operated Heavenly Pizza in Yarmouth, MA, before he retired to Holiday, Florida.
While he had a successful and fulfilling career in restaurant management, his passion involved carpentry, building and all manner of home repair. No project was too big or too small. He was always prepared to volunteer his time and experience with a home improvement project; family and friends have many reminders of his good work. He left a mark on many homes and families.
Mr. Alexander was also an avid gardener and lifelong Red Sox fan. Adjectives to describe him include generous, patient, tireless, faithful and loving.
He remarried, later in life, to the former Maria Kourtidis. Maria passed away in 2013.
Family and friends will gather to remember him on Sunday, October 4th from 5 to 8 p.m. in O'CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester. His funeral will be held Monday, October 5th with a service at 10:00 A.M. in St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street, Worcester. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street, Worcester, MA 01609.