Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

January 23, 2026

CHARLOTTE – Tom Nixon, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the age of 92, in his home, surrounded by his cherished family.  Born on January 18, 1934, in Viniani, Greece, Tom lived a long, full, and extraordinary life defined by faith, generosity, strength, and an unforgettable presence.

At just 21 years old, Tom immigrated to the United States, arriving in Charlotte, North Carolina, with five dollars and a dream.  He made Charlotte his home and built a life rooted in hard work, devotion, and service, while never losing his deep love for Greece, his village, and his heritage.

Faith was central to Tom’s life. A chanter his whole life, he served the Church with humility and dedication, lending his voice, time, and heart wherever he was needed.  He was a devoted member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Charlotte and an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, a distinction reflecting his lifelong commitment to the Orthodox faith and its mission.  Tom was also a true philanthropist, generously supporting his churches, his village in Greece, Socrates Academy, many charitable organizations, and countless individuals in need — often quietly and without recognition.

Tom’s leadership and service extended far beyond the church. He proudly served as President of the Velouchi for two terms, President of the Elatos Chapter of Panagia Prousiotissa, and as President, later Secretary and Treasurer, of the Adelphotis Vinianiton Dodeka Apostoli.  Tom was also lifetime member of the Order of AHEPA in Charlotte.  His contributions left a lasting mark on every organization he touched.

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering strength, partnership, and support of his beloved wife, Laura, who stood beside him through every chapter of his life.  Together, they built a legacy of faith, family, generosity, and love. 

A force of nature in every sense, Tom was known for his strong personality, commanding presence, and unmistakable firm handshake — one that people remembered long after meeting him.  You could not encounter Tom Nixon and forget him.

He found great joy in life’s pleasures: time with friends around the card table, laughter, music, and dancing. Known affectionately as the “Fred Astaire of Charlotte,” Tom lit up the dance floor alongside his beloved wife, who was forever his Ginger Rogers.

Above all, Tom cherished his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Laura; his son, Bill, and daughter-in-law, Mina; his daughter, Joanna, and son-in-law, John; and his treasured grandchildren, George, Ria, Joanna, and Tommy.  His love for his family was unwavering, and his pride in them immeasurable.

As he grew older, Tom often shared a saying that perfectly reflected his outlook on life:

“At 80, I’m still on my way; at 90, I’ll arrive; and only then I’ll wonder if it’s time to age in life.”  He lived every word of it — always moving forward, always engaged, always fully alive.

Tom Nixon’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the faith he lived by, the generosity he shared, and the joy and strength he brought to everyone who knew him.  He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 AM on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.  Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.  The service will be livestreamed by the church at: https://www.youtube.com/@HolyTrinityCathedralCharlotte for those unable to attend in person. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of Tom to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 600 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203 or Panagia Prousiotissa Chapel at Elatos Park, 124 Jim Parker Drive, Monroe, NC 28110.

May His 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.