Peter John Critikos, Ph.D.

Peter John Critikos II, 96, passed away on January 29, 2025 in Hendersonville, NC. He was born on March 26, 1928 in Philadelphia, PA to John Peter Critikos and Katherine J. (Tsigris) Critikos originally from Megara, Greece. He is survived by his older sister Athena Gazes and prior wife Alice Tellis Critikos of Charleston, SC. As well, he is survived by his three children Katherine Critikos Thompson, MD. (Tab Eugene Thompson, MD, MBA), John Peter Critikos II, MD. (Gerri Marxer Critikos, MA), and James Peter Critikos, ISA (Irene Zografou Critikos, MA). Peter was blessed with six grandchildren: Peter John Critikos III, JD., Edward Marxer Critikos, MA., Alexander James Critikos, MS., Virginia James Critikos, BA., John Henry Tab Thompson, JD., and Luke Tellis Thompson, MBA; and additionally, his beloved great grandchildren Poppy Louise Thompson and Tab Ernest Thompson. He is also survived by his three nieces Hope Grayson, Cathy Cline, and Joanne Ellison. 

Dr.Critikos’ academic career started in 1955 teaching grade school in Malvern, PA. Subsequently, in Charleston, SC, he taught at both Porter Military Academy and Moultrie Middle School. After having moved to Baltimore, he taught at Woodlawn Junior High and Pikesville Senior High where he also coached soccer, cross country, and track. He then began teaching at the university level in Baltimore, initially joining the faculty of Essex Community College and then Villa Julie College. He concluded his teaching career as an Associate Professor of History at Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, North Carolina. Throughout his life he was an active member of The Greek Orthodox Church. For many years, he taught adult Sunday school at The Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation in Baltimore, Maryland. He also volunteered his time giving learned lectures and tours of the Orthodox church to the public. His teaching career spanned a half-century. 

Superimposed on a passion for teaching was a passion for learning. He attended John Bartram High School in his native home of Philadephia, PA where he also obtained his undergraduate degree from LaSalle University. In 1960 he earned his first master's degree in Modern European History from Villanova University. His second master’s degree in Theology was completed at St.Mary’s Seminary and University in Baltimore, MD. Subsequently, at the same institution, he received his Doctorate of Philosophy in Theology. 

Peter was an historian in the truest sense and was an avid collector of first-edition history books. He taught courses ranging from early American history, European studies, ancient Greek history, to ancient Chinese civilization. Even in his later years, through his mid-nineties, he enjoyed writing a book focusing on Greek immigration to the United States during the turn of the twentieth century. He was assisted in this endeavor by his dear friend and caregiver, Kathy Richmond. In short, he taught everything from grade school grammar to high-level college courses and on Sundays, the word of God. 

Peter loved his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren with pure “Agape”. His time with the little ones was precious to him. His aging eyes would ignite with pride and wonder when spending time with them. 

Dr. Critikos’ influence on his family, thousands of students, church, and community in general has been immeasurable. Collectively, we will miss him. Axios Peter, Axios.

May his memory be eternal. 

Donations may made in Dr. Critikos' honor to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Library, Charleston, SC.

A Funeral Service will be held at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 30 Race Street, Charleston, SC, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 11:00 am. Visitation (Trisagion), will be at 10:30 prior to the service. Burial to immediately follow in Live Oak Memorial Gardens, 3093 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC.