Mary Kyriakos Malesis

Mary Malesis passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, at the age of 89, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Digaleto, Pyrgi, on the island of Kefalonia, Greece, Mary was a beloved mother, yiayia, wife, and friend.

The youngest of 11 children, Mary faced early hardship, losing her mother in the devastating 1953 earthquake while still a teenager. In 1956, she immigrated to Seattle, WA, with the help of her sister, Aphrodite (“Effie”) Cominos.

Adjusting to life in America was not easy, but everything changed in late 1956 when Mary met her future husband, Louis Malesis (1933–2020), at a St. Demetrios youth church event. Their immediate connection blossomed, and on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1957, Louis proposed. They married on June 2, 1957, and remained devoted partners for 63 years until Louis’s passing in November 2020.

Together they raised three children — Mary Ann, Georgia, and Alex — and in November 1972, they opened their family business, Malesis Flowers & Gifts, on Rainier Avenue in Renton, proudly serving their community.

Mary worked tirelessly alongside Louis, but she also cherished life’s joys: traveling on cruises to Alaska or the Caribbean, getaways to Nevada or Ocean Shores, and, most of all, cooking and caring for her beloved family, especially her grandchildren.

Mary is survived by her children, Mary Ann Giakoumatos and husband Kostas, Georgia Malesis-Best and husband Roger, and Alex Malesis and wife Cyndi; her grandchildren, Sophia Giakoumatos, Maria Giakoumatos, and Anna Malesis; and many dear friends and relatives who will miss her deeply.

Mary’s light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. It brings us peace and joy knowing she is reunited with her loved ones, especially her husband, siblings, and mother.

Αἰωνία ἡ μνήμη (May her memory be eternal.)