September 20, 1961 - October 20, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Eleni Zarefakis. Born Helen Eleni Piskopos on September 20, 1961 to Mary Bailey and Iakovos Piskopos. Eleni was a benevolent woman and no one who came to know her would say otherwise. She was a woman who always extended a helping hand without hesitation or without expecting something in return - she was charitable. This was a trait that was prominent in both her professional and personal life.
Many people knew Eleni as she was a proud member and employee of Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church for over 25 years - offering her service for 10 years as the church’s secretary and her devotion for 26 years as a parishioner. She was active both on and off the clock and continued to offer her service even after her diagnosis of cancer.
When Eleni wasn’t offering her support, she was offering her time to be spent with those she adored the most - her family. Her love for her family was apparent in the way her spirit illuminated when she talked about them. They were her greatest joy and she was truly a proud matriarch.
Eleni Zarefakis was called home on October 20th, 2025 after a courageous battle against acute leukemia. She is survived by her loving family: mother - Mary Bailey, husband - Mathew Zarefakis, children - Anastasia Cook, Maria Zarefakis, Demitrios Zarefakis and Iakovos Zarefakis, her grandchildren who she adored: Eleni Cariati, Syrus Cook, Skyler Cook and Mila Zarefakis; as well as the spouses of her children/bonus children: Shalen Cook and Annie Cunningham.
Her memory will carry on as her love will continue to be felt by those who have been blessed with her presence.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. - Matthew 5:4
Eleni’s services will be held at Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church on Thursday, November 6th, starting at 6 p.m for the Trisagion. The funeral will take place on Friday, November 7th at 11 a.m with the Makaria to follow. Thereafter, Eleni will be laid to rest at Cherokee Memorial Park and Funeral Home at 2:30 p.m.
St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church
920 W March Lane
Stockton, Ca 95207
Cherokee Memorial Park and Funeral Home
14165 Beckman Rd.
Lodi, Ca 95240