Joann G. Birurakis
Passed: March 09, 2025
Charleston, WV
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Joann G. Birurakis
Passed: March 09, 2025
Charleston, WV
Obituary
Joann G. Birurakis, 89, of Charleston, WV, passed away peacefully at her home with her family at her side on Sunday, March 9, 2025.
She was born March 3, 1936, in Crete, Greece, as the daughter of the late George and Argiro Korakakis.
She was known as an extraordinary woman. Early in life, she survived, along with her family, the German invasion of Crete during World War II. In 1954, she married her husband of 71 years, William Birurakis. Together, they raised their four sons, William Jr., Michael, Gregory, and Stephen.
Joann had several known talents, one of which was being an excellent seamstress for Stone and Thomas for more than a decade. In 1983, her independent drive created one of the most well-known restaurants in Charleston, the Best of Crete Restaurant in the Town Center Mall. She was devoted to God and a faithful member of St. John Greek Orthodox Church for 57 years, as well as a proud member of the National Lady’s Philoptochos club for over 50 years.
Joann is survived by her husband, William; sons, Michael (Cynthia), Gregory (Jacqueline), and Stephen; daughter-in-law, Saundra; grandkids, Leah, William III, Evia, Alexandria, Maria, Jacob, and Joslyn; her brother, Niko, and sister, Nichi.
She was preceded in death by son William Jr., daughters-in-law Beverly and Marnie, and brothers Demetri and Haralambos.
Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at St. John Greek Orthodox Church, Charleston, WV. Burial at Sunset Memorial Park, South Charleston, WV, will immediately follow.
Visitation will begin two hours prior at the church.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. John Greek Orthodox Church, 3512 MacCorkle Avenue SE, Charleston, WV 25304.
Condolences may be sent to her family at www.barlowbonsall.com .
Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home, Charleston, WV, has been entrusted with arrangements.
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St. John Greek Orthodox Church
- Address: 3512 MacCorkle Avenue SE, Charleston, WV 25304 - (Get Directions)
17 responses to Joann G. Birurakis
Sherry Jack Hill says:
March 14, 2025
Joann was beautiful inside and out and family meant the world to her. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother as well as a doer. She made slipcovers, helped operate a small tea room in Stone and Thomas and then a restaurant in the malll– Best of Crete. She was so admired for her personality, her zest for life and love of family. Sending sympathy and love to you her family. She was remarkable and unforgettable..
Randy and Jeanette Gillespie says:
March 13, 2025
Mike, we were so sorry to hear of your Mother’s passing. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Lois Williams says:
March 13, 2025
Aunt Joann was a beautiful lady. She was strong,wise, godly, and a pillar to her family. She took whatever happened in her life and made the best of it. Her four boys were her pride and joy and she provided them with a godly example, modeling the rewards of hard work and using her God given talents.
She was a true Proverbs 31 woman. Strength and honor were her clothing.She opened her mouth with wisdom and kindness. She looked well to the ways of her household and was not idle. He children arise up and call her blessed.
Rest in peace Aunt Joann and thank you for being an example for me and my daughters.
Ashley Humphrey says:
March 13, 2025
Sending love & prayers to the Birurakis family.
Frank Burdette says:
March 13, 2025
Mike, Greg & family I am sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and the family.
Frank Burdette