Mary G. Backos

Mary G. Backos (nee Saros) passed away on February 16, 2023. Mary was the cherished wife of the late Sam Backos. She was the beloved mother of Kelli (Jim), George, Dennis (Roseann) and loving Yiayia to Samantha (Andrew), Andrea, Aaron, Caleb and Joshua. Mary was the daughter of Kalliope and George Saros and the youngest of nine children. Her siblings predeceased her: Peter, James, Gregory, Helen, Nick, Spiro, Gus, and Ulysses “Dish.”

Mary devoted countless hours as caregiver for several of her relatives and she maintained family bonds by hosting many holiday gatherings when her family feasted on her wonderful baked goods. She adored children and this was evident in her work as an elementary school teacher as well as her patient and kind ways with her children and grandchildren. She had a marvelous sense of humor and her laugh would echo throughout her household on numerous occasions!

Mary loved her Assumption Greek Orthodox Church and its parishioners. She worked tirelessly with the Parish Fundraising Committee and organized its first walkathon to raise monies for the church and community center in St. Clair Shores. She was an active member of the Assumption Parishioner’s Association and the Women’s Golf League. Mary loved to watch various sporting events, particularly the Detroit Pistons and Tigers as well as PGA tournaments. She enjoyed bowling and golf and played backyard basketball with her children and grandchildren.

Mary’s family is grateful to the staff of Sunrise at Grosse Pointe Woods and at Vernier who cared for her during her prolonged journey with Alzheimer’s disease, and all those who provided their love and support over the years.

Visitation will be at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church (21800 Marter Road, St Clair Shores) on Monday, February 20 beginning at 9:30 a.m. until the funeral service which will commence at 11 a.m. A luncheon to celebrate her memory will be held immediately following at noon at the Assumption Cultural Center. Private burial will follow at White Chapel Cemetery in Troy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church.

May her memory be eternal.