Constantine Peter Pappas

Constantine (Connie) Peter Pappas, 89, of Old Greenwich, Connecticut, passed peacefully from this world on May 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 11, 1936, Connie lived a life marked by service, faith, and devotion to others.

Born in Watertown, Massachusetts to Greek immigrants, he grew up surrounded by his beloved cousins. He attended Northeastern University where he joined ROTC and quickly grew a love for service and country. Connie served his country with honor as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, Special Forces, Airborne. His commitment to supporting fellow servicemen continued throughout his life, leading his steadfast work as a mentor for the SEAL Recruiting District Assistance Council (RDAC) in Greenwich, CT, where he mentored local candidates, preparing them for Navy SEALS screening and training.

After the service, Connie moved to New York City where he began a career in advertising and marketing, which brought him to meet his wife, Happy, who was selling ad space. They bantered so, that Happy’s boss set up a lunch for them, and that was all it took. Almost sixty years later, they were still at it - partners in marriage and in life.

A man deeply rooted in his faith, Connie has been an active member of the Presbyterian Church of Old Greenwich, now Living Hope Community Church, for over 50 years, where he served in many capacities over the years, not the least of which was chief emcee. He stood at the podium in a different capacity at the Greenwich gathering of the National Day of Prayer, where each year he led the prayer for the military, a role he cherished deeply.

He was also deeply rooted in community, and his service to others continued as he dedicated countless hours as a board member of Call-a-Ride in Greenwich, which provides free rides to seniors and offering companionship and kindness along the way.

Connie loved fishing, boats, and all things nautical. He and his wife Happy had just reached lifetime status as members of the Rocky Point Club in Old Greenwich, where he formed lasting friendships and enjoyed many years by the water. He served on the Rocky Point Board of Directors, was a member of the Admissions Committee, the Nominating Committee, served on the New Members Committee, manned one of the "safe boats" used in sailing, and was a steadfast presence at the annual Fishing Derby. He most recently developed and ran a Rocky Trivia Night, which quickly booked out and would become an annual tradition.

Connie loved people and was affectionately referred to by those closest to him as The Mayor – walking through church, Rocky Point, restaurants – you name it – he always had an outstretched arm ready to shake a hand and learn what he could about those around him. Quick with a joke or an insightful question, he was always the life of the conversation. Connie was taken from this world too soon, but we rejoice that his body is once again whole, and he is at peace.

Above all else, Connie was a devoted husband and father. His greatest joy was his family, and he poured his heart into them every day. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Happy, and his daughters Beth Pappas and Jenn Pappas Piersa, along with his son-in-law Thomas Piersa. His love for them was steady, proud, and unconditional.

A celebration of Connie’s life will be held at Stanwich Congregational Church on June 13th at 11:30am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to one of the following organizations in his memory (Website links further down the webpage):

Wounded Warrior Project, Call-a-Ride of Greenwich, The Navy League (in support of RDAC), Living Hope Community Church, Tunnel to Towers Foundation