Mary passed away on December 20that age 95, surrounded by family. She was the consummate lady right to the end.
Mary was born in Magna to Peter E. and Anna Athas, graduating from East High School. She attended LDS Business College and took part in various capacities in supporting her family and friends during WWII. Her early years were full of family and taking part in her beloved Greek community.
Mary married the boy of her dreams, Pete G. Paulos, on April 28,1946, after he returned from his service in WWII. She was a devoted wife and mother to her four children. But she was much more than that. She was a most incredible hostess and cook. Mary's life was full of entertaining. Friends and family were always welcome in her home and it seemed like there was a constant flow of activity. In Mary's home, you were judged by how much you were willing to help prepare for her dinner parties, then how much of her cooking you were willing to consume.
She and Pete traveled the world, from Russia to Greece to Hawaii, and she loved every place she visited. Mary had many interests; she was an avid game player, (dominant in Scrabble). She loved playing golf and bridge with her many dear friends and bowled for many years.
Mary raised four successful, independent, diligent children. In her last few days, she reinforced what she had told us since we were young; love one another and take care of those who can't take care of themselves. She was a wonderful mother. Demanding, but always loving. Supportive and encouraging of us, but certainly not one to make excuses for us.
Her life was full of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was in constant contact with her family and watched over us with love, concern and kindness. She was a woman of great dignity. The term "lady" seemed to be invented for her. It was important for her to be proper in every way; dress, language and behavior. She set a high standard.
Mary is survived by her four children Pam Paulos-Strike, Con (Lisa) Paulos, Ann (Demetri) Preonas and Bill (Julie) Paulos. She was Mere to her kids and Yia Yia to her 10 grandchildren Nicholas Strike, Peter (Holly) Strike, Paulos (Elizabeth) Strike, Nicole Maria German, Costa (Ashley) Paulos, Christina Paulos, Louis Preonas, Peter Preonas, Sarah Marie Paulos and Nicholas Paulos. Mary was blessed with 5 great grandchildren; Taylor Marie, Jolee, Emma, JP and Georgia.
Our family would like to thank Cornerstone Hospice for their loving care along with a sincere thank you to the staff of Cottonwood Place where Mary spent her last year and a half.
A viewing will be held at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 279 South 300 West on Tuesday, December 27thfrom6-8pm. There will be a prayer service at7pm. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 28that 11am also at Holy Trinity. Interment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery following the funeral service.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Cottonwood Place Staff Holiday Fund/Mary Paulos at 5600 South Highland Dr. Holladay, Utah 84121 or to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Community at the above address.
May her memory be eternal.
