Mary Samaras Soter fell peacefully asleep in the Lord on April 2, 2020, at her home surrounded by her loving family. Mary was born in Clarksburg, West Virginia, to her immigrant parents Evangelos and Kalliope (Kate) Samaras on October 10, 1928. Mary’s childhood was spent primarily in Greece, when her family was trapped there during World War II. Surrounded by her extended family , they endured the strife of war in Piraeus, Greece. The family was finally able to return to the U.S. in 1947, and settling in Oklahoma City.
Her father died 6 months after their arrival in OKC, leaving teenaged Mary, her sister, and her mother to fend for themselves in a new country. Mary worked fervently at the family restaurant with her mother and sister, making sure it became successful and sustained them. She finished high school, and entered college at Oklahoma City University. The family joined St. George Greek Orthodox Church shortly after their arrival in OKC, and it was there that Mary met the love of her life, George Soter. They courted for 3 years, and were married on June 24, 1951. Over the next 10 years, they built a family of 3 children. They were fortunate to have a well connected extended family, creating a solid network of love and companionship.
Once the children were well on their path to adulthood, Mary struck out and began her career in the fashion clothing industry. Her keen eye for fashion was a talent which gained her notoriety as a strong businesswoman in the industry. She retired from her Tres Chic at the age of 80, to the disappointment to many of her patrons and friends.
Mary enjoyed traveling with friends and family and built many memories with them. Weekends at Lake Tenkiller were always a treat. Trips to visit family in Greece highlighted their globetrotting as well.
Mary was known for her gift of making everyone feel special and making sure every need was met. Her parties were often lavish, all with food she prepared herself, and filled with warmth and happiness. She stood ready to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and special events with a dinner or party. She added spark to the room, appearing impeccably dressed, greeting all with a big smile and a warm hug. Mary was well known to help those who were ill. She would often appear at their door with a big pot of Greek soup, which her grandchildren called “Yiayia soup”. She always had Greek pastries to share as well, to the delight of the recipients.
Mary will be remembered for her energy, enthusiasm, and her zest for life. Her infectious smile, and elegance, her way of commanding the room will remain etched in the minds of many. The family and Mary’s friends will truly miss the spark she added to any gathering, the playful humor she displayed, the mischievous wink and grin when she was pranking someone, the steadfast support during trying times, the generous spirit behind her warm smile, the emotional glue to the family and her deep faith in God.
Mary is predeceased by her husband George, her sister Irene Panos Conkling, her parents Evangelos and Kalliope Samaras, and many extended family members. She is survived by her 3 children, Elaine Soter Thomas and husband Burke, Karen Papagolos and husband Gus, James Soter and wife Dottie. Her grandchildren includes Christopher Thomas, Stephanie Thomas Bollenbach, Angela Papagolos and Mary Papagolos, George Soter and John Soter. She also will be missed by several nieces and nephews.
A private Trisagion will be at 5 pm Sunday 4/5/20 at Hahn Cook Street/Draper Funeral home, 6600 Broadway Extension, Oklahoma City.
A private funeral will be held at St George Greek Orthodox Church at 10:30 am Monday 4/6/20 with Interment at Rose Hill Cemetery.
A Memorial celebrating the life of Mary Soter will be announced at a later date.
