Galia K Nikolov

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Galia Kamenova Nikolov, who left this world on February 22, 2025, at the age of 66. Mrs. Nikolov is survived by her husband of 19 years, Zhorro (George) Nikolov; her daughter and son-in-law, Irena and Jeff Cherry; and granddaughter, Mila Cherry.

Galia was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her warmth and generosity touched the lives of all who knew her.

Born on December 22, 1958, in Bulgaria, Galia grew up in a hard-working family. Her father, Kamen, was a well-respected schoolteacher with an inventive and curious mind. Galia learned a lot about science from him and got involved in his many technical pursuits, including building a black and white photo lab for his students. Her mother, Stamena, was a local EMS practitioner devoted to saving lives. She often went on emergency calls to help people in medical accidents. From her mother, Galia learned to be kind and attentive to other’s hardships. Galia had a beloved younger sister, Iva, who was a talented singer. Galia, a piano player, and Iva, were the soul of family parties and were fun to watch. Unfortunately, the family suffered a great loss when Iva died in traffic accident when on a school bus trip at the age of 10. This accident changed Galia’s life as she became the only hope and support of her parents, whom she lovingly cared for until their passing.

Galia grew up with a keen sense of adventure and an insatiable curiosity about the world. She graduated from high school and initially enrolled in mathematics before transferring to physics at Sofia University, where she earned almost all bachelor’s degree credits. Due to the dire economic situation in the country, she switched to a field where she could better provide for her family. She completed a business course at the London Business School in Sofia and then started her own real estate firm. As a real estate agent, she helped many people find their dream homes or rent apartments. This is how she met her future husband, Zhorro, when he was searching for property, and their paths crossed.

The love between Galia and Zhorro sparked almost immediately. Both were divorced, and they started living together and making plans for their future. At the time, Irena was in high school, and Zhorro established a deep bond with her, which continues now as she has a beautiful family with Jeff and Mila. Galia was a huge support to Zhorro when he immigrated to United States after winning a green card lottery. She encouraged him and stood by him in this adventure of a lifetime. They could not move to the USA together, because they were not yet married. It took almost six years until she joined him in the USA. During that time, contrary to common expectations, their love and bond grew even stronger.

Galia thoroughly enjoyed her life in the States. She was enthusiastic about learning English, and making trips to both nearby and remote locations, enjoying the beauty of the unique American nature. She quickly made many friends in three different states they lived in, who now mourn her loss. Friends and relatives were always happy when she was with them. She had a great ability to put people at ease, listen to their worries and help them feel better and overcome difficulties by finding fun and laughter in every situation. She was never overwhelmed by dark thoughts; she saw the light when others despaired. She often said, “Everything will be OK, just be patient and keep doing the right things the way your intuition tells you”. And after this, everything seemed to happen in the best possible way.

Galia was known for her infectious laughter, boundless energy, and unwavering optimism. She had an extraordinary ability to find joy in the simplest of things, whether it was cooking meals (in which she excelled), a quiet walk in the park, attending a lively family gathering, or going on a road trip. Her kindness and compassion were evident in her every action, and she never hesitated to lend a helping hand or a listening ear to those in need. People loved to be around her, and she was the soul of every gathering.

Galia’s love for her family was unparalleled. She was a devoted wife to her husband, with whom she shared 19 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they supported Irena, who came to the USA a year earlier than Galia. Irena was the pride of Galia and had the best mother one could ever wish for. Galia was so happy and lucky to witness the blossoming of Irena’s relationship with Jeff. She was thrilled to attend their wedding with her husband, and a few years later, to welcome their beautiful, smart and kind granddaughter Mila to the world. Being a grandmother gave her the ultimate loving relationship with her daughter’s family. Mila adored her “Baba” and cherished the hugs, stories and adventures she shared with her.

Galia’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and boundless enthusiasm for life. She will be deeply missed by all who have the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift those who carry her story forward.

A celebration of Galia's life and a funeral service, preceded by a reception, will be held Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 12 noon at H.M. Patterson and Son, Arlington Chapel, 173 Allen Rd., NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328.

Rest in peace, dear Galia. Your love, laughter, and light will forever be remembered.