Giannoula Sarris, Beloved Cleveland Matriarch, Passes Away at 88

Sarris leaves behind a large family and legacy of Greek Orthodox faith and community service.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 8:11pm

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Giannoula J. Sarris, a longtime resident of Cleveland, Ohio, passed away on March 14, 2026, at the age of 88. Sarris was the beloved wife of the late John G. Sarris for 52 years and the loving mother of five children. She is survived by her large extended family, including 15 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Giannoula Sarris was a pillar of the Greek Orthodox community in Cleveland, having been a lifelong member of the Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church. Her passing marks the end of an era for many local families who knew her as a devoted matriarch and community leader.

The details

Sarris was preceded in death by one brother and four sisters. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to the Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, where her funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 11 AM. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery.

  • Giannoula J. Sarris passed away on March 14, 2026.
  • Her funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 11 AM.

The players

Giannoula J. Sarris

An 88-year-old longtime resident of Cleveland, Ohio, and a lifelong member of the Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church.

John G. Sarris

Giannoula's beloved husband of 52 years, who passed away prior to her.

Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church

The Cleveland church where Giannoula Sarris was a lifelong member and where her funeral service will be held.

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The takeaway

Giannoula Sarris' passing marks the end of an era for the Greek Orthodox community in Cleveland, as she was a beloved matriarch and pillar of the local church and family network. Her life exemplified the values of faith, family, and community service that have sustained many immigrant communities in the city.