Filia Giouzelis

Filia was born in Kremasti, Laconia, Greece, on December 13, 1923, to Giorgios and Kiranna Zotalis. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Andreas Zotalis (Maria), Yiannis Zotalis (Chrisafo), Antonis Zotalis (Georgia), Panayiota Dounias (Yiannis), Theodore Zotalis, and Georgos Terizis (Panayiota).

Filia married the love of her life, Michael Giouzelis, on February 5, 1945. They were blessed with five children: Maria Eliopoulos (Gus), Chris Giouzelis (Katerina), Anna Tsoromocos (Ted), Ted Giouzelis (Marie), and Georgia Giouzelis. She was also adored by many grandchildren: Jimmy Eliopoulos (Lori), Venetia Vonich (Jimmy), Chris Tsoromocos (Maria), Michael Tsoromocos (Nicole), Matina Michoulas (Steve), Felicia Giouzelis, Michael Giouzelis (Kristin), and Anastasia Giouzelis Chriest (Chris), along with 12 great grandchildren.

Filia immigrated to San Leandro in 1958 with her four children, making the long journey by boat to New York before continuing by plane to San Francisco. Her husband had arrived earlier to prepare for their new life together. In 1961, they welcomed their fifth child, Georgia, completing their family.

Filia was a hardworking and devoted wife and mother who took on many roles to support her family, including owning a coffee shop and working at Piper’s in San Leandro. She was known for her warm smile, kind heart, and endless generosity. Anyone who walked through her kitchen door was welcomed with love and a delicious home-cooked meal—there was always enough for family, friends, neighbors, and anyone in need.

She found great joy in tending to her beautiful garden, overflowing with flowers, fruit, and vegetables. Her home was the heart of the family—a place where everyone gathered, felt welcomed, and made lasting memories.

Filia also had a joyful spirit. She loved to laugh, sing, and dance, and her happiness was contagious. She was the sweetest and cutest Yiayia, whose love, warmth, and gentle presence brought comfort and joy to everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the wonderful caregivers who cared for Filia with such kindness, compassion, and dignity. Thank you for keeping her comfortable and surrounding her with love during her final days. Your care meant more to us than words can express.

Filia will be forever remembered, deeply loved, and profoundly missed. Her love, strength, and beautiful spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and all who knew 

Greek Orthodox Cathedral Of The Ascension July 7 2026 11:00AM

4700 Lincoln Ave, Oakland CA 94602

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