In Loving Memory of Penelope Georges
Penelope Georges, a beloved mother, grandmother (YiaYia), and great-grandmother, peacefully fell asleep in the Lord at her home, surrounded by her loving family, on September 25th, 2024.
Born in March 1931 on the island of Kastos, Greece, to Gerasimos and Kyriaki Giannoutsos, Penelope was the cherished middle child of six siblings: Spyridon, Yiannis, Vasilios, Alexandra, and Maria. She is now reunited in eternal rest with all of her siblings and her devoted husband of 63 years, Aristidis “Harry” Georges.
At the age of 25, Penelope immigrated to the United States, seeking a brighter future alongside her brother Vasilios. In 1957, she was introduced to the love of her life, Aristidis Georges, and they soon wed in Norfolk, Virginia. Their journey together took them westward, where they settled in Southern California, a place Penelope called home for the rest of her days.
Affectionately known as YiaYia, Penelope was the heart of her family and home. A gifted homemaker, she found joy in nourishing those around her with her remarkable cooking and baking, filling the air with the warm, inviting smells of homemade meals and sweet treats. Together with her husband, she extended her generous spirit to the wider community, offering food to those in need through their family-owned restaurant.
Penelope’s unwavering faith in God was the cornerstone of her life. She had an innate ability to uplift those around her, always offering comfort and encouragement, reminding others of God’s love and providence. With a deeply empathetic heart, she carried the burdens of others as her own, constantly praying for those she knew. Her compassion was boundless, and she never spoke ill of anyone, reflecting a life lived with grace, kindness, and humility.
Her legacy is one of unconditional love—a love that she generously shared with family, friends, and even strangers. Her presence filled every room with warmth, laughter, and a profound sense of peace. Those who knew her were blessed to witness her Christ-like example of selflessness, compassion, and hospitality, known in Greek as “philoxenia.”
Penelope is survived by her loving family, including her sons Jerry (Patricia) and John (Athena); her four grandchildren, Aristidis (Danielle), Stefanos (Zina), Ariana, and Sofia; and three great-grandchildren, Yiannis, Alexios, and Tori. Her memory will continue to inspire her family as they strive to live by the values she so beautifully embodied.
Penelope’s spirit of love, her sense of humor, and her unwavering faith in the Lord will remain etched in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her memory be eternal.
