Paul Nicholas Pappas

Paul Nicholas Pappas, age 92, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025. He was born on February 27, 1933, in Jacksonville, Florida to Nicholas J. Pappas and Athena B. Pappas. Paul attended Central Riverside Elementary, John Gorrie Junior High, and Robert E. Lee High School, Class of 1951. He was a proud graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, Class of 1955.

Paul Pappas was a devoted Christian and lifelong member of St. John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church, Jacksonville, FL, and Holy Mother of God Greek Orthodox Church, Tallahassee, FL. He served the church in many capacities. He served as President of the Parish Council in Tallahassee, and a Parish Council member in Jacksonville. He was a member of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) for over 60 years.

He married Eugenia (“Jennie”) Stathis on February 14, 1960. In Paul, she found a loving partner of 65 years. Paul was the witty, reserved, meticulous, and humble complement to his outgoing, nurturing, and supportive wife. He shared a beautiful relationship throughout his life with his three children Nicholas, John, and Evangeline (“Vangie”). Paul (“Papou”) was blessed with five grandchildren. Paul’s love for his family truly knew no bounds and this was constantly demonstrated by his fervor and willingness to do whatever he could for them.

Paul served in Korea as a First Lieutenant of the U.S. Army 707th Ordnance Battalion. Paul joined the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) following his graduation from The Citadel and military service in 1957. Starting as an Engineer Trainee, Paul rose through the ranks within the Department over his 30-year career and was ultimately appointed by Governor Graham to serve as Secretary of FDOT in 1981. After his FDOT retirement in 1985, he took on a position as Vice President of Engineering at RS&H, ending his career as Vice President at Sverdrup Corp (Jacobs Engineering Group). Paul was well respected by all in his profession with an impeccable reputation.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, John N. Pappas and George N. Pappas, and his sisters; Margie Felos, Frances Tsengas, and infant twin Evangeline N. Pappas. He is survived by his sons Nicholas Pappas and John Pappas; daughter Evangeline Podes and daughter-in-law Beverly Pappas; two grandsons, Nicholas Podes, Andrew Podes; three granddaughters, Christina Podes, Alexa Pappas, and Taylor Pappas; and a godson, Theo Joanos. He is also survived by many other cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, December 1st at St. John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church, 12760 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, Florida 32246, with the Very Reverend Dr. Nicholas Louh officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church.

Words of comfort can be left at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/12631846