Despina Anastasiou

Born October 12th, 1931 in Manhattan, New York to her loving parents, Charles and Catherine Didymos (nee Lappas), she lived in NJ before becoming a Florida resident 35 years ago. Despina graduated from Montclair State College and was a passionate and well respected elementary school vocal music teacher for almost 40 years. Nothing made her happier than conducting the many choirs and hundreds of students over the years.

Despina was known as the ultimate hostess…graciously entertaining and cooking for a houseful of guests always made her smile. She loved a good game of Scrabble and always completed at least two or three daily newspaper crossword puzzles in ink without mistakes.

Nothing gave her greater joy than spending time with her family especially her grandchildren. There were many happy years gathered at the house in Florida.

Despina is predeceased by her adoring husband, Michael, who stayed by her side for over 71 incredible years. She leaves behind her two children, Charles and his wife Nina, Elena and her husband Louis; and grandchildren Catherine and her husband Jeffrey, Gabrielle and her husband Jacob, Michael, Samantha and great-grandson Joseph.

A funeral service for Despina will be held Monday, February 10, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 250 Gallows Hill Rd, Westfield, NJ 07090. There will be a viewing from 10:15 -11am. Following the funeral mass will be a graveside service from 12:15 PM to 12:45 PM at Fairview Cemetery & Arboretum, 1100 E Broad St, Westfield, NJ 07090.