With profound sadness and love, we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Evdokia Mallios, who departed this life peacefully on the evening of Sunday, March 23, 2025, at the age of 89. Surrounded by her cherished family, and more importantly, her devout husband, James T. Mallios, of 65 years who remained faithfully by her side until her last breath. She entered into eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and unwavering devotion.
Evdokia was born on October 21, 1935, in Neohori, Greece, to the late John and Mantha Kotsalos. The eldest of her siblings to George Kotsalos, Vasilios (William) Kotsalos, Vasiliki Kotsalos, and the late Vasilios and Evangelia—Evdokia stepped into the role of caregiver at a young age after the loss of their father. She became a guiding light and second mother to her siblings, a role she embraced with grace and strength throughout her life. She is survived by her siblings (as mentioned above), their spouses: Maria Kotsalos and Sophia Kotsalos and all their children and grandchildren.
A devout Christian and a proud member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, Evdokia lived her life in humble service to God and her community. She was a devoted member of the Syllogos Neohoriton and faithfully served as President of the St. Catherine’s Philoptochos Society. In 2023, Evdokia was awarded the Saint Photios Award, which recognizes the years of loving and dedicated service she provided to her community and orthodox faith within her own parish. She was beloved for her warm presence, strong spirit, and especially for her loukoumades, which became a highlight of the annual Greek Festival. Evdokia never missed a name day or memorial, always baking prosphora and antidoron with prayerful intention. Her faith guided her every step, and her love for her church and traditions was an inspiration to all who knew her.
James and Evdokia started as humble immigrants who fled war and famine in Greece. Together they built a life grounded in faith, family, and hard work. From 1959 to 2002, they owned and operated The Keystone Restaurant in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Even after retiring, Evdokia remained a daily presence, bringing Greek pastries to loyal customers and blessing everyone with her warm smile and sweet treats.
She is survived by her devoted husband, James T. Mallios; her loving children and their spouses: Tom and wife Anna Mallios, John Mallios and partner Marizol Jimenez, George and wife Tessie Mallios, and Athena and husband Tom Balafoutas. Her grandchildren and their spouses, who were the joy of her life, include: Jacquie (Evdokia) and husband Stelios Ferentinos, Christina and husband George Saltos, Demetria and husband Billy Tobin, brothers Demetri and John Mallios and fiancé Lauren, James and wife Jessica Mallios, siblings Kia and William Mallios, and siblings John and Labrini Balafoutas. Her great-grandchildren—Gianna, Stella, and Maximus Ferentinos; Christos, Yianni, and Perseus Saltos; and Nikolette Tobin—were her pride and joy.
Her grandchildren will forever hold dear the meals she lovingly prepared, the summers spent in Greece, and the unwavering values she instilled in them: faith in God, love for family, and pride in their culture. She was not only their yiayia, but also a second mother, teacher, and best friend. Her presence made every home warmer, every Sunday dinner more joyful, and every prayer more meaningful.
Evdokia was a holy woman—gentle, wise, generous, and deeply loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her absence leaves a void in our hearts, yet we are comforted in knowing she is in the arms of our Lord, free of pain, watching over her family with love and peace. Her memory will be eternal.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 1000 Yverdon Drive, Camp Hill, PA 17011. Viewing will be from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, followed by the funeral service. Interment will take place at East Harrisburg Cemetery, with arrangements by Neill Funeral Services.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral or The Syllogos Neohoriton Society, in honor of Evdokia’s lifelong dedication to her faith and heritage.
May her memory be eternal—Αιωνία της η μνήμη. Καλό παράδεισο!
