Of Wellesley and Osterville, passed away at home peacefully as the sun rose on July 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Rose was the beloved wife of the late Spyros "Spike" Gavris, with whom she shared 65 wonderful years of marriage. She was the devoted mother of Lee Gavris and his wife, Gloria, of Chestnut Hill; Virginia Gavris of Wellesley; Maria Gavris of Wellesley; and George Gavris and his wife, Sandra, of Weston. She was the cherished "Nana" of Jason, Matthew and his wife Sage, Michael, Christopher, Andreas, and Alessandra Gavris.
Rose was born on May 7, 1930, in Boston to George and Maria Yannoulos. As the daughter of Greek immigrants, she grew up in a home where education, hard work, and perseverance were deeply valued. She excelled at academics at Girls' Latin School and Simmons College graduating in 1952, then began her career as an engineer at Raytheon. These early years brought out her qualities of curiosity and determination that remained with her throughout her life.
In early 1955, at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Rose was introduced to a Navy officer stationed in Boston, Spyros Achilles Gavris. They were married in March 1956, embarking on a remarkable partnership built on a foundation of family, friends, faith, philanthropy and hard work. Both coming from small families, they cultivated lifelong friendships from Spike’s business endeavors and were active members in St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Weston, They shared a love of travel, fine food, and entertaining, always opening their home with warmth and generosity.
Rose was a lifelong learner and avid reader participating in her book club for more than 40 years. She loved her walks along the beach collecting shells in Martha’s Vineyard, Osterville and Palm Beach. She was a devoted fan of Jeopardy! who often answered the clues before the contestants. She loved to cook and bake, mastering new recipes as well as having her specialties on hand for her family to enjoy. After her children went off to college, she enjoyed a long and successful career in real estate with Rutledge Properties in Wellesley, where her integrity, professionalism, and genuine care for others earned the trust and admiration of clients and colleagues alike.
Rose will be remembered for her smile and a life defined by grace, generosity, and quiet accomplishment.
Funeral services will be private. Donations in Rose's memory may be made to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox in Weston or a charity of choice. An online guestbook is available at gfdoherty.com.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Rose's exceptional caregivers Annette, Litiana and Marie.