Stella Savaris Harriston (Haritakis) age 87, peacefully fell asleep in the Lord at home on August 5, 2024.  She was preceded in death by her adoring husband, George. They were married for 57 years and their marriage was the essence of love, devotion, laughter and wonderful shared experiences. Loving mother to Hope Tzagournis (John) and Michael Haritakis (Connie). Dear Yiayia to Luke, Sophia and Charlie Tzagournis and George and Gus Haritakis. Daughter of the late Aristodemos and Agatha Savaris. She was also predeceased by her sister Anna Savaris Bambakidis, who was Stella's baby sister and best friend.

Stella was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, daughter of immigrant parents. Stella was extremely driven and independent. She persuaded her parents to allow her to attend college and pursue an education at a time in history when women did not receive a higher education.  She graduated from Drexel University in Philadelphia, where she studied education and child development. She was one of the first in her family to attend and graduate college. In addition to obtaining her BS degree, she also went on to obtain her Masters degree from Kent State University. Stella was a beloved teacher and connected with all whom she had the privilege of working with and teaching.

Stella will most fondly be remembered by her children for her warmth and hospitable nature. Her family and friends were the most important aspects of her life. She loved to entertain, cook and feed anyone who came to her home. Her hospitable nature was something honed by growing up in her family's restaurant, The Lighthouse Restaurant in Atlantic City.  She was extremely proud of being from Atlantic City, where during her youth she served as a cheerleader and captain of the squad. She always kept in touch with her lifelong Atlantic City and Drexel friends. She was fortunate enough to be hired by her alma mater and taught at Atlantic High for 10 years before moving to Cleveland. In addition to her career in education, Stella was an avid artist who loved to paint mostly ocean and beach scenes, a reflection to her growing up one block from the Atlantic Ocean.

Stella's journey to Cleveland began with "love at first sight" when she met George and was engaged 7 days after their chance meeting at a Greek convention in Washington D. C. They were married three months later in Atlantic City. She moved from the city to the country farm with the love of her life, George.

Visitation and funeral services will be held on Saturday August 10, 2024 at St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church 4548 Wallings Road North Royalton, Ohio 44133. Visitation will begin at 10:00am with the funeral services at 11:00am. Interment St. Theodosius Cemetery.

Stella fought a long battle with dementia and was fortunate enough to stay at home during her journey. We would like to thank her dedicated care team who allowed her to remain at home and deeply cared for George and Stella. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be directed to the women's Philoptochos Organization at St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church.

Arrangements under the care of Cannon-Catavolos Funeral Home of Parma Heights (440)842-0456.

For online tributes and condolences please visit www.C-Cfuneralhome.com

Women's Philoptochos Organization at St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church
4548 Wallings Rd., North Royalton OH 44133
Tel: 1-440-237-8998
Web: http://www.stpaulgoc.org