Darlene R. (Meyers) Panagopoulos

Age 81 of Canton, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 25, 2024, after courageously battling a long illness. Darlene was born on January 26, 1943 to John and Helen Meyers in New Philadelphia, Ohio, where she grew up and completed her early education.

Darlene "became Greek" when she met and married the love of her life, Paul Panagopoulos, who she spoke of in cherished adoration into her final days. Darlene and Paul were blessed with 48 years of marriage, until Paul's passing in 2019, and together, they built a life to be celebrated, centered around their Greek Orthodox faith, their love of good food and special holiday traditions, and most especially, their beloved family and friends. Never to know a stranger, Darlene and Paul's table always had room for one more, and their door, always open.

Darlene is survived by her two sons – John (Shannon), Akron; and Mark, Canton – who were their pride and joy, and she adored her daughters-in-law. Remembered as a fiercely protective, generous, and loving mother, with an omnipresent koutala in her handbag to ensure the boys' good behavior in church, perhaps Darlene's most treasured role was that of Yia-Yia to her three grandsons – Gavin Paul, Landon John, and Andrew Douglas – who could bring a smile to her face that rivaled the sun's shine.

Even as her health rapidly declined, Darlene was the quiet epitome of beauty, both inside and out – always put together, always with her lipstick, and always talking about her family and when she would soon see her beloved Paul again. "In the hearts of those who loved you, you will always be there; as you were, you will always be, treasured forever in our memories."

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 1 at Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church with Rev. Dr. Nicholas V. Gamvas officiating. Calling hour 10-11 a.m. with service beginning at 11 a.m. Interment will be at Forest Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Darlene's loving memory to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital or Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church.