Penelope Raptis

April 23, 2026

CHARLOTTE – Penelope Raptis passed away in her home in the early morning of Thursday, April 23, 2026, surrounded by family.  She was 95 years old at the time of her death, just a month shy of 96.  She looked forward to reconnecting with her husband, Serafim Raptis, who died in 2012, and her son, George Raptis, who died in 2021. 

Penelope was born in Viviani, Evrytania, Greece to George and Maria Mantis on May 21, 1931.  She and her beloved husband, Serafim, married in 1952 and later welcomed five children, Nia, Voula, George, Tommy, and Nick.  Sponsored by her brother, Sam Mantis, they moved to Charlotte, North Carolina in 1974.  She devoted her time caring for her children and working to support her family.  They lived simply, but fully.  Later in life, she took on her favorite role as grandmother.  Her grandchildren, John, Jacob, Thomas, Alexis, JoJo, Lea and Kosta, will always remember her smile and warmth. 

Until her last breath, she exuded love and kindness. Those that loved her will always remember how she would wrap her arms around herself to tell you that she loved you with all of her heart. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral.  The family will receive friends 30 minutes prior to the service at the church.  Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of Penelope to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 600 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203.

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.

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  • Lisa Austin

    I remember the first time I met Mrs Penelope, she gave me the biggest smile, and the biggest hug and kiss!!! She always asked me about my children and grand children, and she was happy when I told her they were ok. She would sit in her living room with me and she tried so hard to speak to me in English, and I tried to speak to her in Greek. Haha!!! It was the sweetest thing!!! Every time I seen her, she smiled the biggest smile!!! And blessed me with her amazing hugs and kisses!!! She even told me, Se Agapo - I Love You in Greek, and melted my heart! I learned to say it back to her in Greek!! I loved to hear her go in her room at night and say her prayers in Greek, and at the end of every prayer when she’s asking God to bless her loved ones, she then would say, everybody!!! Haha!! She was and will always be so precious to me!!! She reminded me so much of my Mother! I am so very thankful I got to know her!! I will never forget her! Rest in Heaven Mrs Penelope!! Please give my Mama a hug for me and I promise, she’ll hug you back!! Se Agapo Mrs Penelope and I always will!!!

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  • Angelo Burlos

    My deepest condolonces to the family

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  • Sia Grorgiou

    She was a very sweet lady always with a smile. May her memory be eternal

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