Helen Charles Nixon

Helen Charles Nixon, 90, of Raleigh, passed away on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, with the comfort of her loving family by her side. Helen was a native and life-long resident of Raleigh, North Carolina. She was born on January 19, 1935, to the late George and Mary Charles, well-known founders of the iconic Roast Grill restaurant. Helen was a devoted member and active leader at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and was a shining example of God’s love each and every day.

First and foremost, Helen was a devoted and incredibly loving and nurturing mother to her three children--Frank, George and Maria—her “Greatest Blessings”, as she would lovingly remind everyone around her. In addition, she was the most beautiful and devoted grandmother (Yiayia) to her grandchildren, whom she loved, adored and definitely spoiled.

In her younger professional years, Helen proudly worked for the North Carolina Wildlife Commission, and later was the recipient of many prestigious awards and acknowledgements as a Senior Insurance Claims Adjuster for Aetna Life & Casualty.

To say that Helen was quite possibly the greatest cook in the world would not be too far from the truth. Along with her authentic Greek dishes, Helen was famous for her pound cake and baklava. Many patrons of The Roast Grill would come for these delicacies even more so than for their famous hot dogs. As a result, many requested her pastries for special occasions and so began her personal catering service.

Helen truly was God’s perfect example of His sacrificial and endless love and compassion to everyone who had the privilege of being in her presence. She touched the lives of all she knew in her own special and loving way.

Helen was preceded in death by her sisters, Pauline Vassilion and Freeda Poniros.

She is survived by her three children: son, Frank Nixon and wife, Maureen; son, George Nixon and wife, Karen; and her daughter, Maria Bundros and husband, Evan, all of Raleigh. She is also survived by her baby brother, Ernest Charles; and five grandchildren, Sierra Nixon (George), Luke and Jamie Bundros (Maria), Eleni and Caroline Nixon (Frank); numerous nieces and nephews and her godchildren.

Helen’s children wish to extend their sincerest gratitude to Gina Stavredes and to her compassionate and loving staff at Elsie’s Place Family Care Home, who treated Helen more like family than a resident. Words cannot express the appreciation felt and the peace that was provided to Helen’s family during her final years.

The family will receive friends Sunday, March 9th from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Raleigh, with Trisagion prayers beginning at 6:00 p.m.

A funeral service will be conducted the following day, Monday, March 10th at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 5000 Lead Mine Road, Raleigh, NC 27612.

May her beautiful Memory Be Eternal.

Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, is serving the Nixon family.