John Christos Panagiotopoulos

John Panagiotopoulos (1931–2025)

John Panagiotopoulos of Sykesville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, at the age of 94. Born in 1931 in the village of Koukorachi near Kalamata, Greece, he entered the world as the sole survivor of triplets. His early life was shaped by the hardships of World War II, experiences that forged his enduring resilience and strength of character.

As a young man, he proudly served his country in the Greek Army, including a role in the military police. In December 1955, while preparing to immigrate to Australia, he was introduced to Vassilia Papademetriou through family connections. Shortly afterwards they were married in Tripoli, Greece beginning a 69-year journey that would lead them to a new life in America.

After arriving in the United States, John worked a variety of jobs while learning the language and American culture, eventually becoming a proud U.S. citizen. In 1961, he became a father with the birth of his son, Christos. Together with his wife, John opened and operated a dry-cleaning business (Bessie’s Cleaners) in Southwest Baltimore on Washington Blvd., for over 55 years.

Faith and heritage were central to John’s life. He instilled in his family the importance of church and Greek culture, living his role as a Greek Orthodox father with devotion. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his grandsons, John (Yanni) and Nicholas (Niko). As a proud Papou, he often said, “The child of my child is twice my child.”

A passionate gardener, John found peace and purpose in working the land, a reflection of his deep roots and enduring spirit.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Vassilia (Bessie), his son Christos, former daughter-in-law Helen, and his cherished grandsons, Yanni and Niko. John will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, deep devotion to family, and the joy he found in tending his garden, a place where he cultivated not just plants, but peace, pride, and a connection to his roots.

May his memory be eternal — Αιωνία του η μνήμη.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation in Baltimore at: https://secure.myvanco.com/L-Z6M8/campaign/C-10016