Lee M. Theodore's Obituary
Lee Theodore, age 80, of Blytheville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 14, 2025.
He was born on September 6, 1945, in Leontio Achaia, Greece, to Mihalis Theodorakopoulos and Fotini Thoma. Lee was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Panayiota.
In 1970, Lee moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where he worked alongside his brother-in-law, Jimmy Anaston for fifteen years, at Claybrook Restaurant. It was during this time that he met Andrew Michalopoulos, his future business partner. The two worked together at the Grecian Steak House in Jonesboro for two years, after which Lee relocated to Blytheville, Arkansas, to take over and operate the Grecian Steak House, a role he continued until his passing.
Lee is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Yiota; his son, Michael Theodore, and his wife, Catherine; his daughter, Fotini Sandoval; and four grandchildren: Izabella Sandoval, Elias Theodore, Panayiota Theodore, and Andreas Theodore. He also leaves behind two brothers, Vasili and Yiorgos Theodorakopoulos.
Lee was a loving husband, father, Pappou, and brother. Known as "Mr. Lee" by many, he was admired for his strong work ethic, fairness, and dedication in both his personal and professional life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Lee's legacy of kindness and integrity lives on through his family and all those whose lives he touched. We find comfort knowing that he is now playing "Lee's Game" in heaven.
A Trisagion service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025, at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Memphis, Tennessee. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery in Memphis, Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church or St. Jude’s Children Hospital in Lee's honor.
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