Josephine “Josie” Tsopelakos

Josephine “Josie” Tsopelakos, age 95, of Athens, passed away on Monday, December 12, 2022 at Sunny Acres Nursing Home near Petersburg, Illinois.

Josie was born September 13, 1927 in Des Plaines, Illinois, the daughter of John and Mildred (Homer) Hickey.

She married Sotirios “Sammy” Tsopelakos in 1973. He preceded her in death on September 6, 2003.

She was the oldest of nine siblings, a brother, Floyd Hickey, living in California,. Her brothers: John Jr., Patrick, Russell, and Ross; sisters: Lorriane, Mildred “Midge”, and Melva Ann all preceded her in death.

Josephine and her husband, Sotirios “Sammy” were bar owners of “Never on Sunday” Springfield, Illinois and the “Athena’s Lounge” Athens.

She loved to cook for the patrons visiting their bar in Athens.  Josie got attached to the patron’s children, especially Rylan, who she enjoyed caring for him and many other children and loved to take them camping with her.

Josie made a promise to Sam to travel to his homeland, Greece, where she spent five weeks there enjoying his family including a special niece, Anda and her husband Bill, who were near and dear to Josie’s heart.

Also surviving are a brother-in-law, James Heise and his two sons; sister-in-law, Divinia “Dee” (husband David) Metzger and their daughter, Farrah (husband Steve) Reagon and son, Larry Needham Jr.; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Private graveside services will be held for Josie Tsopelakos.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.