Athena Dousis Cone

Athena Dousis Cone, born in 1941 to Leonidas and Lambrini Dousis, passed away on April 30, leaving behind a life rich in family, community, and deep love for her hometown of Niantic. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who never missed a moment in her children’s lives.

She enjoyed a happy and spirited childhood growing up in downtown Niantic, where her lifelong connection to the town began. Athena was a member of the first graduating class of Niantic Center School and went on to graduate from New London High School in 1959. She attended nursing school and worked as an ER technician before later returning to college to earn her degree in Library Science.

In December 1962, she married the love of her life, Donald Pomeroy Cone. As a Hurricane Hunter in the Naval Air, Donald’s service brought them to Florida, Puerto Rico, and Maine in their early years together, where Athena worked in hospitals in each location. After starting their family, they returned to Niantic — the place Athena always considered home.

She was deeply involved in her community, turning a part-time position at the East Lyme Public Library into a full-time career as a reference librarian and later assistant director. Her dedication to civic life was equally remarkable. Athena served on the East Lyme Jury Commission, was elected three times to the East Lyme Zoning Commission, volunteered as a Scout leader, chaired the East Lyme Democratic Women’s Club, and was a proud member of the Daughters of Penelope.

After retirement, Athena and Donald split their time between Niantic and their home in Florida, where they spent half the year surrounded by family and cherished friends, building new memories while maintaining strong ties to both communities.

Athena had a passion for travel and was fortunate to explore much of the world, including China, Egypt, Europe, and throughout the United States. Her favorite destination was Greece, which she visited several times, cherishing her heritage.

At home, she found joy in friendships that lasted a lifetime. She cherished the evenings spent at McCook’s Beach, laughing with friends until tears filled their eyes.

In later years, Athena became an unofficial historian of Niantic and shared her love of local history through her writings, including a special section for The Day titled “The Greeks of Niantic.”

In addition to her parents, Athena was predeceased by her beloved husband, Donald; her sister, Avergerini Kontogouris; and her brother, Nicholas Dousis.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Chrysanthe Moore and her husband Wayne; her loving son, Donald Cone and his wife Primmy, her four cherished grandchildren, Donald, Alex, Evangeline, and Colvert; and her great-grandson, Maverick. She is also survived by her sister in laws Lorraine and Janet, as well as several nephews whom she lovingly considered her bonus children.

Athena will be remembered for her warmth, her laughter, her dedication to family and community, and her deep and enduring love for Niantic.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, May 7th from 5-8pm at Fulton-Theroux Funeral Home, 13 Lake Ave., Niantic. A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, May 8th at 11am in St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church, 200 Hempstead St., New London. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery, Niantic. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made the the East Lyme Library, 39 Society Rd., Niantic, CT 06357.