James Harry Moshovitis

Jimmy Moshovitis, beloved husband, father and grandfather died peacefully in his sleep on December 28th. He was 99 years old. Jimmy is predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Zoe Moshovitis, had two children Diana and Harry, sister Vivian and late sister Georgia, son-in-law Michael, and four grandchildren Zoe, Jason, Skylar and Maia. Jimmy had many nieces, nephews and countless friends who will all miss him dearly.

Jimmy will be remembered as embodying all the remarkable traits of the "Greatest Generation". Selfless service, hard work, overcoming obstacles and achievement beyond imagination. Jimmy like many first-generation immigrants, started out with nothing. Jimmy finished high school and enlisted in the Navy. Jimmy was a radio man on a ship near Japan during WW2. He rarely spoke of his time in the Pacific, but being a radio man he was a prime target for the kamikaze pilots. He participated in the infamous battles of Okinawa and Iwo Jima and was extremely proud of his service that changed the course of history.

After the war, Jimmy started working in his father's restaurant and quickly realized “ I would much rather be the landlord than the tenant" to quote him. Slowly he started saving money until he could buy the restaurant. He continued buying up small commercial properties in downtown DC and earned the nickname "The Spike" once the DC Metro was announced. Jimmy often was the last domino to fall and would hold out until he was offered the price he wanted. He did all this with no lawyers or accountants. His weapons were a bag of donuts and fresh coffee. He became a legend in the DC real estate circle.

Jimmy had deep faith in the Greek Orthodox church and was an extremely active and generous member of Leadership 100, FAITH and the St Sophia Cathedral.

Jimmy loved to travel and traveled around the world with Zoe and had many fabulous adventures with dear friends. Jimmy loved fishing in Alaska and always brought home delicious fish for family and friends.

Jimmy was a very passionate and equally sensitive person. He could be tough and also easily brought to tears. He loved sports, was a fierce tennis player and loved cheering his grandchildren on. Jimmy was truly a one-of-a-kind, was a huge inspiration to many, and will be terribly missed by all who knew him.

Funeral service starting with a viewing will be held at the St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral starting at 10am on Saturday, January 4th. The internment following will be private.