Harriett Tavlarides

She was born on January 8, 1931 in Wheeling West Virginia and raised in Yorkville, Ohio. Harriett lived a remarkable life distinguished by her devotion to service, family, faith, education and community. She was married to the love of her life, Rev. Dr. John T. Tavlarides, for over 62 years. He preceded her in death almost 11 years to the day that she passed. Together they were parents to five children, Ted, Mark (Marilyn) Nia (Steve) Demetri & Christopher (Dana). She adored her grandchildren, Stephanie & Phillip Stratos, Eleni Sophia Tavlarides & Carissa Tavlarides.

Harriett was preceded in death by her beloved parents Agamemnon and Kyriaki, her uncles John & Harry. She is survived by her beautiful sisters, Fotini (Fannie) and Angela (Angie). She also joins her heavenly family, brothers-in-law, George, Chris, Apostolos and sister-in-law, Maria. She took great pride in her many nieces and nephews.

Harriett was a graduate of Yorkville High School and Saint Basil’s Academy for college. She began her professional career as a teacher in Canonsburg Ohio and subsequently taught Greek language & theology to generations of children in NYC and Washington, DC. Harriett also studied and trained to become a professional tour guide at The Hillwood Museum, where she worked for over 25 years. Her knowledge of history, theology and the decorative arts led her to her passion project which was undertaken alongside with her beloved husband, Father John. Together for over 40 years they worked with Dumbarton Oaks, the Byzantine Studies Center of Harvard University on the interior of Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral, creating one of the most prominent Byzantine cathedrals in America.

Harriett’s life was devoted to her cherished Saint Sophia community where over the 55 plus years she taught Sunday School & Greek School, ran the ICON booth, served as an interpreter and proudly gave tours to hundreds of schools, tourists and other institutions of Saint Sophia’s Byzantine Cathedral. Above all, Harriett will be remembered for the extraordinary love she gave to her husband, children, grandchildren, sisters, extended family, friends and the Saint Sophia community where she faithfully served for more than half a century.

She leaves behind a legacy of faith, knowledge, service and love. Her life touched generations, and the many people she taught, guided, welcomed, and cared for will carry her memory forward.

The funeral service for Harriett Tavlarides will be held at Saint Sophia Cathedral on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.

Funeral Information as follows:

Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral

2815 36th St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Wednesday, September, 23, 2026

Viewing Hours: 10:30-12:00 Noon

Funeral Service: 12:00 Noon

Makaria Memorial Luncheon following the funeral service at church in The Frosene Ballroom.

A private family burial will be held at a later date.