On Friday, January 21st, 2022, as the final note was played of the Greek Orthodox chanting, our beloved Mother, Yiayia (Grandmother), Pro-Yiayia (Great-Grandmother), Godmother and friend took her final breath. As tears filled our eyes; tears of joy filled hers as she saw the face of God. Katherine “Argyroula” Pantazes, placed her hand in God’s.
Her wealth was not measured by things you could touch; they were measured by her profound belief in God and fervent dedication in practicing her faith. She lived a life of prayer and Orthodoxy. Every moment, every step, every second, she lived her faith. To us, she was angelic, and we treasured each spoken word. In her final days, we believe the words and wisdom were given from above.
Her impact was felt by all those who knew her. Strangers would stop and ask to touch her, hug her, take a photograph with her. When she arrived on the island of Santorini and ascended the mountain on a donkey, she was greeted by people begging her to baptize their children. Like bees to honey, people swarmed around her; kindness flowing like a gentle stream from her presence. She baptized over fifty children in her lifetime, and it was her belief that her god children were her connection to the heavens. She believed they prepared for her passing by lighting candles to guide her soul; she believed that at her final farewell, candles would surround her casket and the light would emulate her love for them and Christ.
During WWII, it was her love for God that gave her strength and the discipline to save a portion of her own serving and place it in the rock wall of the village, to allow for others' hunger to be filled with her love and compassion.
Her love and concern for others was paramount and she selflessly asked how you were doing regardless of how she was!
Above all else, her most important role was that of a mother, Yiayia, Pro-Yiayia, Godmother, foster mother, pioneer childcare provider, and dedicated sponsor of children in need. She opened her heart and home to so many people. Some stayed for days. Others, like our Kosta, for years. Her patience, love, and selflessness never-ending. Her compassion for people, regardless of who they were or where they came from, is a small example of the magnitude of her beautiful heart and spirit. Love spilled from her soul, and it touched so many. Her wealth was measured by love and love alone. Her home was FULL and her HEART was too!
Katherine “Argyroula” Pantazes, known as Yiayia to all, was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Pantazes. She is survived by her children George (Debbie), Maria, Katina (Pete), Stella (Stuart), Stamatis (Sherri), and Christos (Jackie). Yiayia’s pride was in her sixteen grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, and more than fifty Godchildren. She will be profoundly missed as the aching feels deeper and more profound because of the permanent hole she has left in our lives and hearts.
A Trisagion will be held on Tuesday, January 25th, at 7:00 PM at The Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church, 1110 Highland Dr, Novato, CA 94949
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 26th, at 10:00 AM at the Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church. Immediately after, her burial will take place at Valley Memorial Park, 650 Bugeia Ln, Novato, CA 94945.
It would be an honor and a privilege to host, family and friends for a Makaria and celebration of her life at the Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church, 1110 Highland Drive in Novato immediately following the burial.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church.
The family wishes to thank Hospice By the Bay, specifically Tina and Nelly for their gentle touch, compassionate care and loving kindness each time they would visit and Wendy for her support.
Our heartfelt gratitude to those who sent flowers, cards, well-wishes and continued prayers; there are no words to express how much your love and support has meant to us. You have been our pillar of strength in this hour of need.
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