Anthony Anastasiou Zambas

Anthony Anastasiou Zambas, lovingly known as Tony, fell asleep peacefully in the Lord on Father’s Day, June 21, 2026. He was born on August 21, 1947, in Nicosia, Cyprus, and raised in the village of Ora. From an early age, Tony learned the values of hard work, family, faith, and perseverance. Alongside his brother Chris and sister Helen, he helped his father cultivate the family land, harvesting grapes, carob, and almonds, and caring for the animals and gardens that sustained their family.

Tony attended the PanCyprian Gymnasium in Nicosia and later the American Academy in Larnaca, where he developed a lifelong love of athletics. He excelled in high jump and loved playing soccer, a passion he carried throughout his life. Even in later years, Tony could still outmaneuver much younger players with his natural talent and love for the game. After immigrating to the United States, he continued to stay active and enjoyed playing racquetball, where he built friendships and connections through sports.

In 1963, Tony immigrated to the United States as a young man with a student visa and later became a proud United States citizen. He built a life rooted in hard work and dedication. He learned the trade of building and refurbishing homes from his father-in-law, Mike Kiriakou, and became a respected custom home builder in the 1980s. He built custom homes throughout Virginia Beach, helped construct several townhome communities, and, alongside Mike Kiriakou, built numerous restaurants for Greek business owners throughout the area. Together they also contributed to the construction of an historic Civil War monument in downtown Norfolk.

Tony’s greatest joy came from the people he loved. He married Irene in 1971, and together they raised two daughters, Sophia and Angela. His daughters and grandson, Vinny, were the light of his life. Later in life, Tony found love and companionship with Caran Zambas, and they shared nearly 25 years together filled with love, faith, and devotion to one another. Her unwavering love and care, especially throughout his illness, was a true blessing.

Tony had a gift for bringing people together. He loved cooking and breaking bread with family and friends, making sure everyone was welcomed and well cared for. He enjoyed lively games of cards and backgammon and loved teaching others the games he enjoyed. One of Sophia and Jesse’s treasured memories is learning backgammon from Tony during their last Thanksgiving together. He was known for his unforgettable hugs, his willingness to listen, his helping hand, and his infectious laugh. People will remember his warm smile and the way he sometimes smiled while he spoke—especially when sharing a story, talking about his faith, or describing something that brought him joy.

Tony cherished his heritage and loved sharing stories of his childhood in Cyprus. He especially enjoyed telling Angela about growing up in Ora, village life, and riding the family donkey, MacMillan. Through these stories, he passed along a piece of his homeland and kept those memories alive for future generations. After his father immigrated to the United States, Tony treasured their time together, including special trips to Atlantic City, honoring the bond they shared.

Faith was the foundation of Tony’s life. Inspired by his father, Anastasi, who served as the Psalti (chanter) in the village church of Agia Marina in Cyprus, Tony learned the sacred tradition of chanting. As a young man, he served as an altar boy and was mentored by his father in the traditions of the church. Later in life, Tony shared his beautiful voice with Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Newport News, Virginia, where his powerful and heartfelt chanting filled the church. His love for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ remained a source of strength, hope, and peace throughout his life.

Tony was also a member of Masonic Lodge, Norfolk No. 1, where he valued fellowship, brotherhood, and service to others.

Those who knew Tony will remember his generous heart, compassion for others, and his ability to make meaningful connections. He noticed people. He listened. He cared. He found deeper meaning in everyday moments and often recognized God’s hand at work in ways others might call coincidence.

Tony is predeceased by his parents, Anastasi and Sophia Zambas.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Caran Zambas; daughters Sophia Wastler (Jesse) and Angela Zambas; grandson Vincent Wastler; brother Dr. Chris Zambas (Hope); sister Helen Nichols (Gary); nieces and nephews; and numerous extended family members and church family members who loved him dearly.

Tony leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, generosity, perseverance, and joy. His memory will forever be cherished by all those whose lives were touched by his kindness, laughter, radiant spirit, and unwavering love for God and others.

The Visitation will take place on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Newport News, Virginia. The Trisagion service will be chanted at 11:15 a.m., followed by the Funeral Service at 11:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Parklawn-Wood Memorial Park in Hampton, Virginia. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Sts Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church.

Kalo Paradiso, dear Tony. May your memory be eternal.