Mary J. Lynn

Born and raised in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Mary was the youngest of four children born to immigrant parents, Ioakim “Jack” Athens and Afrodite “Venus” Athens Eklem. She carried her Greek heritage proudly throughout her life and remained deeply devoted to her faith and community.

Mary was a devout Greek Orthodox Christian and was a member of the Orthodox choir in Spartanburg. She was a past president of Gamma Alpha Sigma Sorority, an active member of the Daughters of Penelope, and served faithfully on numerous committees. One of her greatest joys was volunteering each year at the Greek Festival, where she shared her warmth and spirit with generations of friends and family.

While living in St. Louis, Mary worked for the local school district and generously volunteered with many charitable organizations. After returning to Greenville in 1986, she worked at Pete’s on Poinsett and later at Gus’s Streetside Café until her retirement.

Mary embraced life fully. She loved flowers, trips to the beach, and spending time with family and friends. Known for her fun-loving nature and adventurous spirit, she traveled extensively and proudly visited all seven continents. Among her fondest memories were her many trips to Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and Cherokee.

She is survived by her daughter, Veniece Thompson; her son, Mark Thompson (Christine); her grandson, Thomas Thompson; and her sister, Rosie Athens Anastopoulo. She was a beloved Godmother (“Nouna”) to Maria Stathopoulos Turner and Anthony George Cheros, and a cherished Thea (Aunt) to many nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her beloved cat, Koukla.

Mary was preceded in death by her husbands, Sebrin Thompson, father of her two children, William Thompson, and Roy Lynn; her brother, Arthur Athens; her sister, Eva Athens Cheros; her brothers-in-law, Anthony “Tony” Cheros and Angelo Anastopoulo; and her nephew, George Anthony Cheros.

Mary will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, deep faith, vibrant personality, and the love she shared so freely with all who knew her.

Services for Mary will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026 at St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 406 N. Academy St. Greenville, SC 29601. Visitation begins at 1:00 PM with a Trisagion at 1:30 PM followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM. Burial will be in Woodlawn Memorial Park, 1901 Wade Hampton Blvd. Greenville, SC 29601 immediately after the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mary's honor to St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 406 N. Academy St. Greenville, SC 29601 or the Daughter's of Penelope Lyra Chapter #241, 406 N. Academy St. Greenville, SC 29601.

May her memory be eternal.