Athena S. (Sapkas) Pappas, 92, passed away Monday, March 7th surrounded by her loving family. Athena was born in Worcester, the daughter of Peter and Helen (Ladyeli) Sapkas. Athena had a life-long love of music. She graduated from the former Classical High School and went on to obtain degrees in piano and voice at the New England Conservatory of Music with the intention of pursuing an opera career in New York City. Family obligations prevented her from pursuing an opera career, so she earned a Master’s Degree in education from Worcester State College and went on to teach third-grade and then music in the Auburn and Worcester public schools for 32 years, retiring in 1991. Athena was a member of St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral and its choir for decades. She was also a member of the Daughters of Penelope, the Philoptochos Society and the Hellenic Arts Society.
Athena’s first love was always her family. She sacrificed her career ambitions to care for her father and sister and was a devoted advocate for her husband, Fred through many complicated health challenges. When grandchildren came along, she was a tireless cook, babysitter, tutor and piano teacher for them all. She will always be remembered by family and friends for her wonderful Christmas Eve caroling and music programs and also for the most beautiful renditions of “Happy Birthday!”
Her beloved husband of 47 years, Fred F. Pappas, passed away in 2006. She had one sibling, a sister, Esther Sapkas. Athena was the loving mother to three children, Peter, Connie Crowley and John and “Yiayia” to her 10 grandchildren.
Athena’s family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Dodge Park and Oasis from the bottom of their hearts for their tireless and always loving care of Athena, especially through the challenges of Covid.
Her funeral will be held on Thursday, March 10th at 10:00 a.m. in St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery. There are no calling hours. O’Connor Brothers Funeral Home, 592 Park Avenue is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral.