Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

January 17, 2026

CHARLOTTE – Maria Romaidis Theofanidis peacefully departed this life on Saturday, January 17, 2026. She was born on March 24, 1938, in Athens, Greece.

As a young child, Maria endured war and significant hardship, experiences that shaped her strength, resilience, and deep compassion for others. As a young woman, she met the love of her life, Nikos Theofanidis. Together they married and lovingly raised their daughter, Eleni. In the 1970s, Maria and her husband made the courageous decision to immigrate to the United States, seeking freedom from political dictatorship and the opportunity to pursue the American Dream.

Widowed at the age of 42, Maria devoted the remainder of her life to being a strong, loving presence for her only daughter and beloved grandson. She channeled her determination and talent into building her own business as a seamstress, which she proudly owned and operated for more than 40 years. Known for her impeccable European style and keen fashion sense, Maria’s attention to detail made her a highly sought-after stylist in the SouthPark area. Many of her clients became cherished friends.

Maria’s love for those around her—especially her family—was immeasurable. She found great joy in discussing fashion and was known for her generosity, often quite literally giving the shirt off her back to bring happiness to others. She was the true embodiment of grace, kindness, and selflessness.

An avid traveler, Maria treasured the many opportunities she had to see the world with her family. She especially looked forward to returning to Greece, where she maintained close friendships and was always warmly welcomed. A devoted animal lover, Maria spent her later years creating a small nature sanctuary in her backyard, where she delighted in feeding birds and deer each day.

Maria is survived by her daughter, Eleni Georgopoulos; her grandson, John Georgopoulos, and his wife, Hresanthe; her great-grandchildren, Serafim and Lena; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 600 East Boulevard, Charlotte, North Carolina. The family will receive friends at the church beginning 30 minutes prior to the service. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to The St. Sophia School, 5108 Kuykendall Road, Charlotte, NC 28270.

May her memory be eternal.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606.  Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.