Bill Papadakis, 79, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on December 31, 1946, in Greece to George Papadakis and Fotini Halkias, Bill spent his early childhood on the beautiful island of Karpathos. The youngest of his siblings, he immigrated to the United States with his family at the age of 11 in search of a better life. Although the family later returned to Greece, Bill never lost sight of his dream of America. In 1963, at just 17 years old, he courageously returned to the United States on his own and settled in Jersey City, New Jersey, determined to build a future for himself.

Through hard work and determination, Bill built a life centered around family, hospitality, and caring for others. He found his place in the restaurant industry, where he developed a lifelong passion for food and bringing people together. Above all else, he was a devoted father to his children, George and Irene Papadakis, and a proud and loving grandfather to Nicoletta, Billy, and Vasili.

Known affectionately as “Papou,” Bill found great joy in returning each year to Karpathos, Greece, an island that forever remained close to his heart. In 2016, he moved to Scotch Plains, New Jersey, to live with his son’s family, where he treasured spending time with his grandchildren and encouraging them to embrace and preserve their Greek heritage and traditions.

Sundays held special meaning for Bill. He faithfully attended St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, where he enjoyed worship, fellowship, coffee, and conversation with friends. He loved Greek reunions and gatherings, proudly celebrating the culture and traditions that defined his life.

Papou was known for his wisdom, humor, and the simple life lessons he shared so generously with those around him, including:

• “Feta cheese is good for your bones.”

• “Honey is the best medicine for a cold.”

• “Olive oil is good for ear infections and heals wounds and burns.”

• “No matter what you become, be good and honest in your profession.”

• “You don’t need a thermometer to check your temperature. Feel your forehead or your belly.”

Bill was also a passionate supporter of Saint Demetrios Greek School and took great pride in helping preserve Greek culture for future generations. Following a cancer diagnosis later in life, he became a dedicated supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

He is survived by his loving children, George and Irene; his daughter-in-law, Zoraida; his cherished grandchildren, Nicoletta, Billy, and Vasili; his sisters-in-law, Maria and Popi; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Bill Papadakis will always be remembered for his strength, generosity, tireless work ethic, devotion to family, deep pride in his Greek heritage, and the warmth and kindness he shared with everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Higgins Funeral Home in Watchung, New Jersey.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Union, New Jersey.

Interment will follow at Rosedale Cemetery in Linden, New Jersey.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to either The Greek School at St Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 721 Rahway Ave, Union, NJ 07083, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.