Francesca K. Mamakos

Francesca K. Mamakos was born in Andros, Greece on April 9, 1935. Her sisters nicknamed her Koula because that name was common among girls in Greece at the time. After their mother died at an early age, they were raised by their Yiayia and extended family while their father worked as a sea merchant. In her early teens, she immigrated with her two sisters, Maria Basantis and Joanna Fanourgakis-Megariotis (predeceased) to the United States (Philadelphia) where they were reunited with their father and extended family. She later got a job in a cigar factory while in Philadelphia. Francesca eventually was introduced to Anthony Mamakos (predeceased) through mutual family members. They were married in Philadelphia in 1958, and settled in Washington, D.C. and had their first son, Louis (1959). Thereafter, moved to Laurel, Maryland, had their second son, (William) Billy (1964) and Eleni (1966).

Francesca was known and dearly loved by all as Yiayia (grandmother in Greek). In the neighborhood where she lived for over 60 years, she was known for her daily walks. She was a fantastic cook and baker. Her kouthebethes and keftedes (Greek meatballs) were some of her specialties. Everyone that entered her house knew that they would be offered food with no opportunity to refuse. You never left her house hungry. Holidays and special occasions allowed Francesca to shine, making authentic Greek dishes and delicious desserts that will be remembered (and missed) always.

Francesca was a licensed babysitter in the neighborhood for many years. Thereafter, she was a seamstress assisting in making and installing draperies and many other beautiful creations. She later worked at TJMaxx in the fitting room giving everyone her honest opinion. She said they asked so she told them. She often walked the mile to and from work. The neighborhood became well known of Mrs. Mamakos and always offered her rides but almost always refused because she wanted to walk. In her downtime, she enjoyed drinking coffee with bread, SHOPPING, crocheting, planting and tending to her flowers, shoes and watching her “stories”, Dr. Phil, NCIS and Bull, with coffee. She was also happy to be around big trees and the beach.

She experienced the loss of close family members over the years — including cherished relatives both in Greece and America. She wore her heart on her sleeve and wasn’t afraid to speak her mind (good or bad). She endured life with strength and faith.

She is survived by her loving children, Louis (Susan), Billy (Sue) and Eleni (Tommy) Caspar; grandchildren, Francesca (Brett), Anthony (Camille), Julianna (Ean), Emily, Grant (Erin), & Abigail and great grandsons Wyatt, James and Dash; her beloved sister, Maria Basantis and sister-in- law, Efrosene Cummins.

Francesca was a woman of love, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her family. Her radiant smile, steady presence left an imprint on everyone fortunate to know her. She had unconditional love for all; especially young children. Most of all, she was selfless; more concerned about the needs of others than of her own.

May her memory be eternal

A funeral service will be held Monday, June 8, 2026 at 10:00 am at St. Constantine’s and Helen’s Greek Orthodox Church, 721 Norwood Road Silver Spring, Maryland 20905. 

Interment will be held Monday, June 8, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Ft. Lincoln Cemetery, 3401 Bladensburg Road Brentwood, Maryland 20722.