Theodoros Lazarou

On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, Theodoros Lazarou, 92, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and beloved member of both his residential and church communities, passed away peacefully. His warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Born to the late John and Ekaterina (Dorizas) Lazarou, Theodoros grew up in Piraeus, Greece, alongside his late brothers, Michael and George, and many cousins. At a young age, during the hardships of World War II, he learned the value of hard work and service, beginning his working life at age five as a newspaper delivery boy. In his early twenties, Theodoros competed in his hometown’s boxing tournament, placing third in his weight class.

He later began a career as a waiter on a Greek cruise liner, and a few years afterward met his wife, Mary, whom he relocated with to West New York, New Jersey. Several years later, they settled in Emerson, NJ, where Theodoros opened the first of his three self-owned coffee shops. Throughout his career, whether working as a waiter in an upscale venue or serving as a manager in various restaurants across Northern New Jersey, he was admired by colleagues and patrons alike. Before his retirement in 2001, Theodoros worked as a handyman, completing small construction projects for residents, businesses, and around his home. In July 2001, Theodoros and Mary moved to Columbia, MD to be closer to their children.

Theodoros is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his son, John, and daughter-in-law, Zoe K. Lazarou; and his cherished grandchildren, Theodore A. and Alexandra C. Lazarou. He was adored by many nieces, nephews, and godchildren, always celebrating their milestones and successes.

He had a deep love for the things that brought joy to his life—watching boxing, cheering for the Dallas Cowboys, and most of all, spending time with his family. Some of his happiest memories were made during family vacations to Myrtle Beach, SC. In his later years, he found immense joy attending his grandchildren’s concerts and theatrical performances, creating cherished memories filled with togetherness, laughter, and simple joys.

A man full of life and personality, Theodoros leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, loyalty, and strength. He made everyone feel valued and cared for—whether through a kind word or his steady presence in their lives.

A visitation will be held at St Theodore Greek Orthodox Church, located at 7101 Cipriano Rd, Lanham, MD 20706, on December 8, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. The funeral service will follow at the same location, beginning at 11:00 am.

The graveside service will take place at Meadowridge Memorial Park, located at 7250 Washington Blvd, Elkridge, MD 21075, immediately following the funeral service, starting at approximately 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to St. Theodore Greek Orthodox Church in Lanham, MD.