Koula Bazakas Malanos

Kyriaki “Koula” Malanos, 96, entered into eternal rest November 25,2023. She was born in Charleston the daughter of Pearl and Nicholas Bazakas. Koula was baptized in The Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity and given the name Kyriaki by her late Godfather George Latto.

From a young age Koula developed a strong work ethic while understanding the importance of family. She grew up along her mother’s side working in the family business. The Bazakas family owned independent grocery stores in the Charleston area. Undoubtedly, this work ethic was an integral part of her life. She was an entrepreneur in a time when men dominated the workforce. This characteristic was admired and cherished by generations of her family. During her career, she owned grocery stores and flower markets. Malanos Flowers on the corner of Calhoun and Ogier Streets served Charleston for many years. During this time, her dedicated husband, the late Emmanuel George Malanos, worked by her side. Koula was an independent, elegant and generous woman admired by many. Her quick wit and unfiltered commentary were the highlight of family gatherings. Her presence will be greatly missed.

Koula is survived by her three children, Dr. George Emmanuel Malanos (Cynthia), Despina Malanos Brewer and Lindsay Evangelia Malanos. Yiayia is survived by her six grandchildren: Michael Edwin Brewer (Alison), Troy Emmanuel Brewer (Kelley), Adriane Malanos Belton, Lauren Russell Ferderigos, Peter Emmanuel Malanos (Megan), and Adam John Russell (Stephanie); twelve great grandchildren and two Godchildren, Tula Hilyer and Effie Fokas.  
  
Funeral will be 11am, Tuesday November 28, 2023, at The Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity, 30 Race Street, Charleston. Interment will follow in Mt Pleasant Memorial Gardens, 1308 Mathis Ferry Road, Mt. Pleasant.

Memorial offerings may be made to the St. Irene’s Philoptochos Society or the Father Nicholas Trivelas Library, 30 Race Street, Charleston, SC 29403.

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