SHREWSBURY- Anna C. (Lekas) D’Elia, 70, died Thursday, October 16th surrounded by her family at UMASS Medical Center following a massive stroke. Anna leaves to mourn her passing, Frank, her devoted husband of 45 years; daughters, Andrea wife of Tony McGowan of Lighthouse Point, FL, and Elaine D’Elia of Shrewsbury; her son Paul F. and his wife Kim D’Elia of Charlton, three granddaughters, Stephanie and Maria McGowan and Sophia Morano; a brother Thomas and his wife, Patricia Lekas of Fairport, NY; and her sister Katherine, wife of Peter Capsalis of Worcester; her mother-in-law, Yolanda D’Elia; a sister-in-law Dolores Penny; brothers-in-law Richard and his wife Nancy D’Elia and Robert D’Elia; cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
She was born in Worcester, the daughter of Constantine and Helen (Gikas) Lekas on November 8th, 1937 and was raised in Fitchburg. Anna retired from Shrewsbury High School where she had worked in the guidance department. She was a member of St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral and its Ladies Philoptochos and was extremely proud of her heritage.
She was a selfless, dedicated, vibrant and spirited woman whose laughter and zest for life were contagious. A loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Anna enjoyed baking, cooking and entertaining family and friends; and dedicated her life to the well-being and care of her family.
The funeral is Monday, October 20th, from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue with a service at 10:00 AM in St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery. Calling hours are Sunday, October 19th from 4:00 until 8:00 PM in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations in Anna’s memory may be made to the Ladies Philoptochos c/o St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street, Worcester, MA 01609.
The family expresses deepest gratitude to the ICU staff for the care Anna received and thoughtful kindness extended to all her family.