Stella (Cotsakos) Vallos

Stella (Cotsakos) Vallos, age 74, passed away peacefully May 22, 2022. Stella was born in Paterson, New Jersey to the late Nicholas and Ethel Cotsakos. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Virginia, mother-in-law Beatrice Vallos, brother-in-law John and his wife Donna Vallos.

Left behind to cherish her memory are her devoted husband of 51 years, Chris, sons James (Effie), Christopher (Danielle), and beloved granddaughter Ariana, all of whom brought her joy beyond measure. She is also survived by sister Joanne (Anthony) Panzarella, sister-in-law Elaine Vallos, many nieces, nephews, cousins and Godchildren all of whom she dearly loved.

Stella worked as an executive secretary at Harter Bank and East Ohio Gas Company; but her heart, soul and life were enthusiastically devoted to their family-owned insurance agency, C. H. Vallos and Associates, working side by side with her husband and sons, building the company to the successful enterprise it is today.

At age 16, Stella moved to Canton to live with her aunt, Niove Fasoulas, and joined Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church where she taught Sunday School. In 1970, she married Chris and became part of the Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church family. This was the beginning of her journey and service to her church, spanning many decades and encompassing many areas within the church community.

A woman of deep, abiding faith, she graciously and unselfishly gave of her time, talents and treasures to every aspect of her life, jumping in with both feet without hesitation to take on all that was asked of her in her service to both her church and community.

Stella was an active member of the Ladies Philoptochos Society, serving on the board and holding numerous leadership positions over the years, including President, Vice President and Secretary. She successfully chaired various committees, including the Tri-Room, Kitchen and Youth Lounge remodeling project and served on the Women of Distinction Committee. Stella was actively involved in the Canton GreekFest since its inception for many years, serving in numerous capacities including Chairman of the Pastry Booth, assisting on the Taverna and Dining Room Committees. She served on many church-related committees through the years, including “Night in Athens” dances, the Saint Haralambos 50th, 75th and 100th Anniversary celebrations, as well as many of the church’s Name Day banquets. She served as GOYA (Youth) Advisor and during her tenure, chaired the Hospitality Room during basketball tournaments. Her magic decorating touch and cheerful hospitality bringing in many compliments from guests who were warmly welcomed into the area. Additionally, Stella made many memories volunteering as chaperone and enthusiastically cheering on the “Saint Haralambos Runnin’ Rebels” basketball team for numerous years at GOYA tournaments. Stella’s commitment and dedication to her church were honored in 1996 when she received the Saint Haralambos Faithful Service Award, and in 2013 when she was bestowed the Archdiocesan Medal of Saint Paul for her outstanding service and commitment to her church. Also in 2018, she was recognized as a Women of Distinction Recipient for her many years of dedicated service. Additionally, Stella was one of the very first JOY advisors and faithfully served on the church’s Sunday School staff for 46 years. She was also a member of the Saint Haralambos Silver Liners.

A 50+ year member of Daughters of Penelope (Chloris Chapter #40), Stella served in various capacities, including President for five years, on the Debutante’s Ball Committee over thirty years (Chairman for four) and Buckeye District #11 Lodge Treasurer as well as being a member of the AHEPA #59 Housing Corporation Board of Directors.

Though extremely busy with her many volunteering efforts and working in the family business, Stella always made time and enjoyed frequent gatherings with a wide circle of dear and special friends. Stella’s greatest legacy and joy was her family. She loved her husband and partner in life, Chris, and fiercely loved and was extremely proud of sons Jimmy and Christopher. She supported them in every area of their lives, and her daughters-in-law were truly her “daughters.” Her greatest pride and joy was her granddaughter, Ariana, who was the “the apple of her eye” and to whom Stella lovingly referred to as her “Little Peanut.” Stella and Chris always made time to support Ariana in all her ventures through the years and this Yiayia had exclusive bragging rights to all of her precious granddaughter’s successes!

Stella’s life was truly a life well lived! She had a smile and kind word for everyone with whom she came into contact, making many friends and treating them all like extended family. Her passing has left a huge void and she will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved her. The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude for the many prayers and wonderful support received from Father Nick, family and friends during this difficult time. The outpouring of support continues to be a tribute to her memory and we thank you.

Family and friends will be received Monday evening, May 30th from 6 – 8 PM at the Rossi Family Funeral Home, 730 – 30th Street NW Canton OH 44709. Trisagion will be held at 7 PM followed by a special service in her honor by the Daughters of Penelope.

Visitation continues Tuesday, May 31th from 10 AM - 12 PM at Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, 251 – 25th Street NW Canton OH 44709; funeral service will begin in the church at 12 PM, with Reverend Dr. Nicholas V. Gamvas officiating. Internment will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations, in Stella's honor and memory, be made to Saint Haralambos or Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.

ROSSI (330)492-5830

www.rossifuneralhomeinc.com

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