Obituary of Alice F. Stefanou
Alice F. Stefanou, a cherished matriarch and beacon of love and grace, passed away peacefully at her Bedminster home on Friday, March 22, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on January 19, 1932, in Sunnyside, New York, to Paul and Helen Foudos, Alice's early life in Flushing, Queens, was the prologue to a story of enduring love, cultural pride, and familial devotion. For the past 24 years, she had been a treasured member of the Bedminster community, carrying with her the legacy of her vibrant Greek heritage.
Alice's journey took a momentous turn at a Greek American dance at Brooklyn College, where she met Peter A. Stefanou. This serendipitous encounter sparked a romance that quickly deepened, leading to their marriage. United in love and shared values, Alice and Peter's relationship blossomed into a lifelong partnership characterized by deep affection, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to family. Together, they wove a tapestry of memories, filled with joyous celebrations, serene moments at home, and adventures across the globe.
A devout follower of the Orthodox faith, Alice found solace and strength in her religion. Her spiritual journey transitioned from Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Queens to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Westfield, New Jersey, where she remained an active and devoted member. Her faith was not just a tradition but a living, breathing essence of her being, guiding her through life's myriad challenges and joys.
Alice's heart and soul were embedded in the sanctuary of her home, which she tended with meticulous care and boundless love. Her residence was more than just a dwelling; it was a manifestation of her nurturing spirit, adorned with the beauty and warmth that reflected her generous heart. A consummate homemaker, she reveled in the art of creating a welcoming haven, delighting in the joy and comfort it brought to her loved ones.
Travel was one of Alice’s great passions, leading her on incredible journeys from the ancient lands of China and Japan to the romantic boulevards of Paris and the quaint towns of Belgium. Each voyage was a chapter in her book of life, filled with curiosity, learning, and the pleasure of discovery, often shared with her beloved Peter and later, with cherished friends and family.
In the realm of culinary arts, Alice was a virtuoso, her kitchen a studio where gourmet creations were crafted with love and shared with eager enthusiasm. She actively participated in several cooking classes, delighting in the exploration of new recipes and techniques, and sharing the fruits of her labor with friends and family, who eagerly anticipated her delicious meals.
Above all, Alice's life was a testament to the power of family. The cherished moments spent with her grandchildren were the jewels in her crown of life’s achievements. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories in the hearts of her daughters, Lisa Stefanou Bennett and her husband Dean, Lainie Stefanou Carter and her husband Brett, and her adored grandchildren Jordan Bennett, Lucas Bennett, Jillian Carter, and Zachary Carter.
Alice was reunited in eternal peace with her loving husband, Peter, who predeceased her in 2002. As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, her life's story continues to inspire and resonate, a melody of love, faith, and grace that will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew her.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Higgins Home For Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ. A funeral service to celebrate her remarkable journey will take place on Wednesday, March 27, at 1:00 PM at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 250 Gallows Hill Rd., Westfield, NJ 07090. Entombment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, 1100 East Broad Street, Westfield, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Alice’s loving memory may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church or to Easter Seals, PO Box 2013, Toms River, NJ 08754, honoring her legacy of faith and compassion.
