Michael George Gavrielides, Sr.

Michael George Gavrielides, Sr., born on November 4, 1935, in Kato Lakatameia Nicosia, Cyprus, passed away on September 22, 2025. He was a skilled mechanic who specialized in foreign cars and dedicated his life to the automotive industry. Beginning his career in Long Island, NY, he served as the parts manager for a Volvo dealership. He then moved to Connecticut, where he worked as a mechanic at a Dodge dealership.

In 1977, Michael relocated to Georgia and took on the role of service manager at a Mercedes dealership in Washington, D.C. Following this, he opened Michael's Automotive in Decatur, where he operated until his retirement in 2006. After retiring, he moved to Athens, Georgia.

In 1962, Michael came to the United States to receive his first of six corneal transplants. It was here that he met and married his beloved wife, Harriette May Gavrielides, in 1965. Their marriage lasted an impressive 60 years, filled with love and companionship.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Harriette, and their children: Bobbe (Peter) Gillis, George (Dana) Gavrielides, Agathe Gabriel, and Mike (Stephanie) Gavrielides. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Jacob Gavrielides, Mandy Gillis, Stanley Gillis, George Gavrielides, Bradley Gavrielides, Michael Gavrielides, III, and Stephanos Gavrielides, as well as his great-grandchildren, Landen Gavrielides and Eden Gavrielides.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Merope Groutas Gavrielides, as well as his sisters, Pagona Poumos and Agathe Matsouka. Michael also mourned the loss of his granddaughter, Penolpe Gavrielides.

A visitation will be held on October 3, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at St. Philothea Greek Orthodox Church, located at 3761 Mars Hill Road, Watkinsville, GA 30677. Burial will follow at Oconee Hill Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Mr. Gavrielides may be made to the Georgia Eye Bank, Inc., 5605 Glenridge Drive NE Suite 250, Atlanta, GA 30342 or online at Donate Georgia Eye Bank .

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, EAST, Athens, GA in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com