Irene Psomas

Emigrated with her younger sister to the United States in 1947 from Post-War Greece to vibrant and promising New York City.

She started working as a seamstress in the basement of the 5th Avenue Finchley’s Department Store in the men’s department, commuting everyday from the Bronx into the city, walking in heels, taking the train and riding the bus. In 1953, she married the love of her life, Paul Psomas. After a seven year honeymoon, Irene gave birth to the first of her two princes, Yianni then two years later Evan.

The family would vacation in Clearwater and eventually purchased the Seaview Hotel on Clearwater Beach (now known as the Palm Pavilion Inn).

In 1972, they moved to Indian Bluff Island and spent many years looking at our beautiful Gulf of Mexico sunsets. Continuing her excellent skills as a seamstress, she worked in various department stores finalizing her career at Burdines. She was a proud member of the very exclusive “B” club.

Upon the passing of her mother and her adoring husband, she found a new purpose in life serving as a nurturing Grandmother and teacher, rearing three more princes, Panagioti, Niko and Vangeli and was the Kostakis family nanny.

Soon after, she received her greatest treasure, finally a princess entered her life. Her joy, her kefi, her name sake, her sunshine, Irini. One thing that gave her true passion and infinite joy was cooking and baking: from dozens of handmade Christmas cookies to trays of savory Spanokopita, we all have been grateful to enjoy her amazing kitchen creations. Her Pasta Flora was THE signature gift at every event, even including this past Christmas. She took great pride in her understated elegance. She could be seen every Saturday wearing her Chanel sunglasses to La Diva Hair Salon. Survived by her son John (husband, Luke “Lukas”), Evan (wife, Rina) and her precious granddaughter, Irini.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church or Suncoast Hospice/Empath.