Sophia (Pantazis) Dongas

Sophia (Pantazis) Dongas, 96 of Manchester, NH and Tarpon Springs Florida passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 surrounded by her loving family.

Mrs. Dongas was born in front of a fireplace in her family home on January 1, 1928, in Pentalofos, Kozani Greece. She was the daughter of Anastasios and Olympia (Vougias) Pantazis.

Prior to coming to America, she met Vassilios Dongas, the love of her life, and would go on to enjoy 64 years of marriage. Together they raised their two beautiful children, who were the center of both of their lives.

Upon coming to America, Sophia and Vassilios lived for a short while in Putnam, CT, where they worked along side Sophia’s father at his confectionary store.

They later moved to Manchester, NH where they resided and raised their family. They opened and operated a seasonal restaurant, Golden Brown BBQ in Salisbury Beach, MA for over 30 years.

Upon retirement, they spent their later years enjoying the warmth of Florida in Tarpon Springs.

Sophia lived life to the fullest. She was a wonderful and loving wife, mother and yiayia. She truly loved her family unconditionally.

She was an avid traveler, visiting so many beautiful countries with her family.

She was gracious hostess, opening her home for many celebrations, parties, or a simple cup of coffee. She was an incredible cook and baker. Every meal was prepared with love.

Her wisdom and compassion were an inspiration to both her family and friends. She had a radiant smile, a warm hug, a heart of gold and a gentle touch for everyone she encountered.

Sophia was a devoted member of St.George Greek Orthodox Cathedral. She exhibited her love and strength of faith through worship, in the choir, the Anagennisis Ladies Society and the Daughters of Penelope. She volunteered for over 40 years at Glendi and was the Matriarch of the Gyro Booth.

Also a devoted member of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Tarpon Springs, where she continued her involvement in the choir, Philoptohos, Nursing Home Ministry, Woman's Book Club and volunteered in various other places.

Members of her family includes her son, Demetrios “Jimmy” Dongas of New Boston, NH, a daughter, Maria A. Dongas and John Nacos of Manchester, NH, and her beautiful granddaughter, whom she called her koukla, Alexia Dongas of New Boston, NH. Other members of her family include several godchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her loving husband, Vassilios who passed away in January 2004. Her infant brother Alexander Pantazis who passed away in October 1926.

May her memory be eternal. She remains in our hearts forever.

SERVICES: Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, from 4 – 7 p.m. at Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 243 Hanover Street, in Manchester. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 20, 2024, 10 a.m. at St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 650 Hanover Street, in Manchester. Committal prayers and interment will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery, in Manchester.

Donations may be made in Sophia’s memory to St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 650 Hanover Street, Manchester, NH 03104 or St. Nicholas Choir Fund, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 36 N. Pineallas Ave. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689.

Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium assisted the family with arrangements. To view an online memorial, leave a message of condolence, or for more information please go to https://phaneuf.net