Mary Karvelis Nicholas

Mary Karvelis Nicholas, 96, of Petersburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 28, 2025, in Hopewell, Virginia. She was born in Emporia, Virginia, on October 31, 1928, to the late Charles John and Constance Pappas Karvelis. Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 33 years, Nick George Nicholas, RPh; and brother, John C. Karvelis. She is survived by her goddaughter, Christina Callis and husband, Donald "Duck" Callis.

Mary went to Greensville County High School in Emporia, where she excelled in academics. She graduated in 1946 as the class Valedictorian. Following high school, she went on to study at the Pan American School of Business, which today is part of Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. Her career first led her to Camp Lee (Fort Lee) where she worked in civil service for two years. Mary then worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Emporia for ten years. She later became a pharmacy technician and bookkeeper for the family business at O.P. Hare Drug Company in Petersburg, Virginia, until 1990 when her husband retired. She went on to have many adventures traveling the world with her husband. Mary loved boating and spending time on the river with her friends and family.

Mary was a lifelong member of St. Elpis Greek Orthodox Church in Hopewell, Virginia. She also enjoyed her service as a member of the Ladies Auxiliary, and Daughters of Penelope. She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, and godmother. She spent the last ten years in the care of her loving goddaughter and husband. Mary loved her time with their chihuahua, Angel and their kitty, Angelina.

The family is being served by the Hopewell Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. All services will be private. The family will plan a celebration of life that will take place at later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in her name to St. Elpis Greek Orthodox Church, 107 Memorial Avenue, PO Box 1204, Hopewell, Virginia 23860.