Evelyn Strongilos Poole's Obituary
Evelyn Strongilos Poole, 96, of St. Petersburg, died July 4, 2026. She was born in Passaic, NJ to her parents of blessed memory, Rev John Strongilos and his wife Fotini.
Evelyn was raised in Brooklyn, NY and graduated from Bay Ridge HS. She then graduated from Hunter College and got her Masters Degree from Columbia University Teachers College. Evelyn taught at New Utrecht HS and then FDR HS in Brooklyn. She met her husband, Fonda Poole (now of blessed memory) while attending the same dinner dance at Kimisis Tis Theotokos Greek Orthodox Church in Brooklyn. They married in 1955 and had 68 wonderful years together. Evelyn also began her art education at Brooklyn Museum of Art and became a prolific painter over the last 70 years.
In 1971 they moved to Topsfield, MA when they bought Evans Flowers & Greenhouses in Peabody, MA. Evelyn joined Fonda the Florist in the business where they had as many as 14 employees. She also joined FTD and held various offices, including the District Representative. Evelyn taught Greek school and was on a local radio station. She also continued her art studies, painting and exhibiting with others in Beverly, Rockport and East Gloucester, MA. Evelyn was also painting and then exhibiting during summers in Samos, Greece.
Upon the sale of Evans Flowers and retirement, Fonda and Evelyn moved to St. Petersburg, FL. Over the next 40 years Evelyn was an active member of St. Stefanos Greek Orthodox Church. She was a dedicated member of the church choir, Philoptohos and the Daughters of Penelope. They continued enjoying their summers in Greece.
Evelyn is survived by her children Anthea-Maria (Vasili) of Samos, Greece and her son George (Marina) of Havertown, PA. She is also survived by 6 grandchildren (Nicholas, Christina, Kimon, Elpida, Sophia and Katerina) and one great-grandson (Xavier Vasili). Evelyn adored and was so proud of them all. She also cherished her relatives, dozen godchildren and many dear friends.
Services will be held at St. Stefanos Greek Orthodox Church on Saturday, July 11 with visitation at 10:00 am, and the service starting at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations to be made to St. Stefanos Greek Orthodox Church (St. Petersburg, FL).
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