Leonora Garefalakis, 80, of Ashland died Friday, August 8th in Metrowest Medical Center, Framingham. She leaves her children, Anna Garefalakis of Hopkinton; Thomas Garefalakis of Worcester and Gina Garefalakis and her husband, Wilfredo Gonzalez, Sr. of Holliston; a daughter in law, Shannon; two brothers, William Stagikas and his wife, Hrisoula of Framingham and Paul Stagikas and his wife, Elizabeth Sue of Ellijay, Georgia; a sister, Diane Stagikas-Choleva and her husband, Kimon of Ioannina, Greece; six grandchildren, Thomas Hidalgo, Irene Rodriguez, Kostas Garefalakis, Mia Garefalakis, Thomas Garefalakis, and Wilfredo K. Gonzalez, Jr.; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.
Leonora was born in Fourka, Greece, the daughter of Thomas and Eugenia (Economou) Stagikas, and immigrated to the United States in 1959. She graduated from Brookline High School and was a devoted member of Sts. Anargyroi Greek Orthodox Church.
A proud and hardworking entrepreneur, Leonora owned and operated several restaurants throughout the area, including Dairy Queen and Bella Costa, both in Framingham, before retiring in 2013. She poured her heart into her work and took great pride in everything she did.
Leonora had a passion for cooking, baking, and listening to Greek music, always bringing warmth and joy to those around her. Above all, she treasured time spent with her children and grandchildren, who were the center of her life.
She will be remembered for her unwavering work ethic, her generous spirit, and the love she shared so freely with family and friends.
Her visitation will be held on Monday, August 18th from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. in Sts. Anargyroi Greek Orthodox Church, 9 Central Street, Marlborough followed by her funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Burial in Walnut Hills Cemetery, Brookline will be private. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, is assisting the family with arrangements.