Emmanuel N. Roussakis

Emmanuel, or Pappou as his family called him, was born on July 17th, 1936 to Marina and Nickolas Roussakis in Ismailia, Egypt. After earning a doctorate degree in economics, it is an understatement to say that Pappou had an extremely successful career.

Dr. Roussakis, as he was known professionally, taught at American Universities in the United States and Europe, worked for American and European banks, and served in an advisory capacity to government agencies, both in the United States and abroad. After joining FIU in 1976, he was instrumental in establishing the department of Finance and developing its banking curriculum, earning a multitude of awards and recognition including receiving the Excellence in Teaching Award three times. Dr. Roussakis has published widely on banking subjects, and his articles have appeared in academic and professional journals in the United States, Europe and Latin America as well as being translated into Chinese and published by the China Price Publishing, Beijing, in 1992.

After meeting Pappou in 1961 in Nashville, Sophia Hartofilax fell in love with his combination of charms, good looks, and big heart and the two got married in Texas. They raised three children, Marina, Nickolas, and George and then came the six grandchildren. Family and faith were the two most important things for Pappou (as well as emails). His kids and grandkids constantly received emails about marriage, bible lessons, and attending church. Priests from all over the country received emails about his grandkids moving to the area and needing somewhere to worship. He was the first one in church every Sunday and every priest in South Florida knew him by name.

Pappou was an incredibly accomplished professional but more importantly a phenomenal husband, father, and grandfather. He was the perennial gentleman with a golden heart whose kindness and faith made him a role model for us all. He was loved by so many people and even in times of suffering, made sure everyone else was doing well. The world is a little less bright without him here, but we all became better people just for having known him.

Take care of George up there Pappou, we all love you.

In lieu of flowers, the family is collecting funds to create a scholarship in his honor at everloved.com

A Funeral Mass will be held at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 2401 SW 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33129, US, on May 27, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

Internment will take place at Caballero Rivero Woodlawn South & Woodlawn Park Cemetery South, 11655 SW 117th Ave, Miami, FL 33186, US, on May 27, 2026, at 2:00 pm.