Southbridge: John S. Koulalis, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and proud Greek-American, passed away at his home on Tuesday, July 22nd, after a period of illness.  He was 81 years old.

Born on May 20, 1944, in Greece, John was raised in the Athens suburb of Glyfada.  He was the second youngest of six children born to Stylianos and Kyriaki Koulalis.  After completing his schooling, he served honorably in the Greek National Army before beginning work in the construction industry, operating heavy machinery with focus and determination.

In search of greater opportunity, John immigrated to the United States, a move that would shape the rest of his life.  Before making that journey, he met Annie (Anthoula Farmakis) in Greece, introduced through her brother, who worked with John. Their connection endured, and they were formally married after reuniting in the U.S. They settled in Southbridge, Massachusetts, where they built a life together and shared nearly 55 years of marriage.

John arrived in a new country without knowing the language, but his resolve never wavered. He welcomed a tutor into their home to help him learn English, all while working multiple shifts to support his family and build a future. He began at United Lens Company and later worked at American Optical, often on second and third shifts, guided by a deep belief that hard work creates opportunity.

In the mid-1980s, John, Annie, and their relatives Samuel and Thalea Genkos, co-owned Pharos Pizza in Southbridge.  A few years later, John and Annie acquired and operated Sturbridge Pizza House, running the family business with pride from 1987 until 2002.  After selling the restaurant, John continued working as a cook at the Southbridge Rehabilitation Center before retiring.

Retirement brought both rest and adventure.  John and Annie traveled frequently to Greece to visit family, often adding stops to islands and occasionally detouring through Italy, Spain, or France.  He was a devoted Boston sports fan who rarely missed a game, and he never passed up a chance to lament the Greek National Soccer Team's performance.

John was a longtime member of St. George Greek Orthodox Church, where he served on the parish council for decades, including in roles as treasurer and assistant treasurer. His commitment to his faith and community left a lasting impact.

Above all else, John was a family man. He was deeply proud of his children, Joanne and Stanley. He was also a devoted grandfather who cherished every opportunity to support Jonathan and Samantha cheering at soccer matches, sitting in the stands at gymnastics meets, and celebrating their every milestone.  His love, steady presence, and example of resilience will be deeply missed.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Annie; his daughter Joanne of Auburn; his son Stanley and daughter-in-law Lia, along with grandchildren Jonathan and Samantha of Danvers, MA. He also leaves behind his brother Vagelios and sisters Panayota and Eleni of Greece, as well as several cherished nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Dimitrios and sister Mina.

John Koulalis lived a life shaped by courage, sacrifice, and enduring love. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 28th, from the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, with a service at 11:00 AM at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 55 North St., Southbridge. Burial will follow at St. Hedwig's Cemetery in Southbridge.

A calling hour will be held in the funeral home on Monday, July 28th from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. George Greek Orthodox Church, P.O. Box 25, Southbridge, MA 01550.

www.morrillfuneralhome.com