Obituary of Sylvia Panarites

Sylvia “Kiki” Panarites, beloved aunt, cherished grandmother, and devoted sister, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025. She leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, unwavering devotion, and a lifetime of gentle strength that shaped the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Sylvia, will be forever loved and deeply missed by her nieces and nephews, Debra and Jamie Somerville and Elena and James Kokakis, whom she cared for as if they were her own daughters and sons-in-law; and especially by the children she helped raise as her grandchildren, Paige and Arielle Somerville, and George and Luke Kokakis, who adored her endlessly and will always carry her love with them.

Born in Utica, New York, to Elaine “Helen” and Constantine “Gus” Panarites, Sylvia was one of three siblings and is predeceased by her beloved sister and best friend, Pamela “Pam” Gounardes, and her brother-in-law Elias “Lee” Gounardes. Their reunion in heaven brings comfort to those who knew how inseparable they were in life. Sylvia is survived by her brother George Panarites and sister-in-law Irene Panarites, along with her godson James Gorman, and numerous cousins and extended family members whose lives she touched in countless meaningful ways.

Earlier in her life, Sylvia worked in Washington, D.C., where she served in administrative roles within a presidential re-election committee. She later continued her professional journey in New York City as a Public Relations Assistant at the Belgian National Tourist Office, and ultimately retired in 2019 from MacKenzie Partners, where she served as a dedicated and highly respected Office Manager. Throughout her career, Sylvia was admired for her sharp organizational skills, professionalism, grace, and unwavering work ethic.

To her family, Sylvia, affectionately known as “Thea Kiki” and “Yiayia Kiki” was the heart of every gathering, the gentle presence in every moment of need, and the source of endless love and reassurance. After her sister’s passing, Sylvia stepped even more fully into her role as a maternal pillar for her nieces and their children, offering comfort, guidance, and the kind of love that felt like home. She was a constant in their lives, a steady hand, a warm hug, a soft voice of encouragement, and a protector in every sense.

Sylvia possessed a quiet strength and a selfless spirit. She gave without expectation, loved without reservation, and devoted her life to her family with an open and generous heart. Whether she was caring for loved ones, offering support during life’s challenges, or sharing simple joys like family dinners, holidays, and long conversations, Sylvia made every person around her feel seen, valued, and deeply cherished.

She had a wonderful sense of humor, a gentle smile that lit up a room, and a nurturing presence that brought comfort wherever she went. Her “grandchildren” meant the world to her, and she valued every recital, game, milestone, and moment they spent together.

Among her extended nieces and nephews, Patricia Orphanos, Andrew Gounardes, and Gregory Gounardes, she was affectionately dubbed “Mary Poppins,” a tribute to her brilliance, grace, stylish elegance, and fierce personality. She had a unique mix of class and sass, and everyone she met was charmed by her.

Those who knew Sylvia will remember her kindness, her warmth, her unapologetic sass, and her extraordinary capacity to love. She lived her life quietly but powerfully, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, generosity, and strength that will continue to guide the family she adored.

Sylvia has now reunited with her sister Pam, her lifelong companion, confidante, and best friend. Together again, they are surely sharing laughter, stories, and the unbreakable bond that defined their lives.

Her beautiful soul is finally at peace. She will be forever missed, forever loved, and forever remembered.