POULOS, ESTHER KARALIS, born on January 23, 1923, in Minneapolis, Minn., passed away on September 25, 2018. Esther was the loving, beloved, selfless, and devoted wife to her husband of 72 years William and mother to her five adoring and grateful children. She graduated from Northwestern University with a major in Ancient Greek. The couple lived near their children in the Tampa Bay area, after having lived in Ft. Lauderdale for 51 years and in Chicago before that.

Together with Bill, she helped found the St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. There she spent countless hours serving in numerous capacities such as Sunday school teacher, Sunday school superintendant, Greek school teacher, and active member of Philoptochos, the church women’s philanthropic organization.

Esther also worked as a hospital nutritionist and taught Greek classes to American tourists traveling to Greece. She adored all 40s music, as well as fine piano orchestration, having been a piano player herself. She and her lifelong dance partner/husband Bill often wowed onlookers with their skill, grace, and elegance on the dance floor. An enthusiastic golfer, occasional tennis player, and gracious party giver, she and Bill also enjoyed extensive travels.

What family and friends adored most about Esther, though, were her genuine smile, angelic spirit, joyful disposition, welcoming attitude, pure and generous heart, kindness toward all, and strong faith.

Esther was predeceased by her devoted husband, William, just ten months ago, and their son, Thomas. Esther is survived by her son, William, Jr. (Judith Ann), and daughters, Denise McCabe (Bernard), Cynthia Poulos, and Janet Hagan (Michael); and grandchildren Jennifer, Patrick, William III, Stephanie, and Michael. Viewing at 10am and memorial service at 11am will be at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Clearwater on October 8. Burial will be at Florida National Cemetery on October 9, at 1:30pm, where she will be laid to rest with her dear Bill. Donations can be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Guestbook at Veteransfuneralcare.com.