Efthimia Philiou (nee Zissis), age 92, born in a small village in Epirus, Greece, passed away peacefully at home on June 30, 2026. Efthimia "Effie" was the beloved wife for 72 years of Epaminondas "Tony"; loving mother of Eugenia, Mary (John) and Susan (Angelo). Effie & Tony were married in Sideri, Greece in 1954 and then came to the United States to begin building their lives together. 

She cherished and adored her grandchildren, Gregory (Nina), Alaina (Greg), John (Nelle), Kristin (Ryan), Anthony and Alicia. She was blessed with 5 great grandchildren, Zachary, Eleni, Theodore, Nikolaos and John. Devoted sister of the following deceased; Kasiani, Xanthoula, Aspasia, Georgia, and Fotini. 

Dearest daughter of the late Gregory and Eleni (nee Diamantis). Loved aunt of Heidi, Greg, and many others in Greece. Great aunt, cousin and Godmother to many. She loved her family more than anything and especially loved gathering everyone in her home on Sundays for a wonderful Greek meal. She was an exceptional cook and her spanakopita with homemade phyllo was second to none. She was happiest with her entire family all together. 

Effie and Tony enjoyed spending winters in Florida and travelled the world. Her faith was very important, and she loved volunteering and baking for her church festivals. Above all, her love for her family is what she will be remembered for. She loved deeply and was an endlessly proud wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions suggested to Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral or to Reserve Care (formerly Hospice of the Western Reserve). Funeral Services 12 noon Monday, July 6, 2026 at Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 3352 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland Hts., Ohio 44118 where Friends May Call from 10 am to 12 noon Monday. Interment to follow at Knollwood Cemetery. 

Arrangements by Fioritto Funeral Service.