Elaine P. Clikas, of Mobile, AL, passed away on August 21, 2026, at the age of 78. Born in Mobile on February 3, 1948, to Sophia and Christ Pappas, she was a bright light whose warmth, faith, and joy touched everyone who knew her leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, kindness.
Elaine was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, friend, and member of her community. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sophia and Christ Pappas, nieces Kris Trotman and Toni Brandt, brothers-in-law Nick Gionis and Dean Pappas. She is survived by her loving husband, Steve Clikas Jr. of Mobile, AL; her son, Steve Clikas III (Becky) of Mountain Brook, AL; her daughter, Kristen Murphree (Mark) of Mobile, AL; her cherished granddaughters, Sibley and Amelia Clikas of Mountain Brook, AL; her sister, Florence Carr (Neil R.E. Carr) of Roswell, GA., sisters-in law Argi Gionis (Nick) of Houston, TX; Elizabeth Pappas (Dean) of Mobile, AL; Jamie Saad (Greg) of Mobile, AL; niece Tessa Carr (Igor) of Nashville, TN; nephews Kyle Gionis (Venessa) of Houston, TX, Dean Pappas of Marietta, GA, John Saad (Allison) of New Berry, MA, James Saad (Mireia) of Mobile, AL; Thomas Carr (Elizabeth) of Roswell, GA.
To know Elaine was to be met with a smile. She had a gift for making people feel seen, encouraged, and inspired, and she loved others unconditionally. Playful, funny, and endlessly enthusiastic, she was the life of every party — the first to laugh, the first to dance, and the one whose bright and sparkling personality could fill a room. Yet behind that fearless, joyful spirit was a heart of deep patience, kindness, and thoughtfulness.
She was a member of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, where her faith was an important part of her life. She contributed as president of Philoptochos Society in her congregation. She was also a passionate sports fan who cheered on the University of Alabama Crimson Tide and the New Orleans Saints, and she found endless joy in good music — especially Elvis Presley — and the company of the dogs she adored.
She graduated from the University of South Alabama and shared her bright spirit as a cheerleader. She was a gifted and creative artist who shared her talents as a beloved art teacher at UMS Preparatory School and Julius T. Wright School. As an art teacher, she shared her creativity and passion with countless students, leaving an impact that extended far beyond the classroom. She believed in the beauty of creativity and in the importance of encouraging others to discover their own gifts.
Above all, her children and grandchildren will remember her first and foremost as their mother and grandmother. Elaine was meant to be a mother and grandmother. Compassionate, patient, and endlessly supportive, she loved her children and grandchildren fiercely and was always there to guide, encourage, and stand beside them. Being their mother and grandmother was her greatest joy, and the love she gave them will remain with them always.
Her family finds comfort in knowing that the light she brought into this world will continue to shine through all the lives she so lovingly touched. May her memory be eternal.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2026 at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church from 9:00 a.m. until 9:45 a.m. Funeral services will begin at 9:45 a.m. Interment will be in Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations in her memory to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 50 South Ann Street, Mobile, Alabama 36604.
The family will receive friends and family at a luncheon at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church immediately following the burial.
