Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

June 9, 2026

CHARLOTTE –With deep love and gratitude, we announce the passing of John Peter Georgoulakos, who peacefully gave his soul to God on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

John was born on March 28, 1941, in Oitylo, Mani, Greece, during the difficult and war-torn years of the 1940s.  One of seven children, he was raised with values of resilience, sacrifice, family, and pride in his heritage—values that would guide him throughout his life.

In 1948, John immigrated with his family to New York City, where they built a new life and pursued the opportunities of the American dream.  In the 1960s, members of the family relocated to North Carolina to help establish Valentino’s Restaurant, where John worked tirelessly alongside his brothers for many years. Through dedication, perseverance, and hard work, he helped build not only a business but a legacy of family and commitment.

John proudly served his adopted country in the United States Army, serving as military police. His service reflected the same discipline, integrity, and quiet strength that defined his character.

Above all, John was a family man. He found his greatest purpose in caring for and providing for those he loved.

John had a deep passion for history, poetry, and the written word.  He loved to read and was gifted in expressing himself through beautiful poems about life, love, and his deep connection to his Greek heritage. His words reflected the thoughtful, passionate, and reflective man he was.

John leaves behind his son, Michael Georgoulakos; his granddaughter, Georgia Georgoulakos and many nieces and nephews along with countless cherished memories and a lasting legacy of strength, wisdom, faith, and love.  He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Georgia Georgoulakos, in 2015, with whom he shared a life built on love and devotion.

Though he is no longer with us in body, his stories, his poems, and the values he passed on will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:30 AM on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 600 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.  Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of John to Panagia Pammakaristos Greek Orthodox Monastery, 1115 Saint Ephraim’s Way, Lawsonville, NC 27022.

May his memory be eternal.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606.  Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.