Katherine J “Nina” Heonakos 95, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2024. Nina was born in Boston, MA, the daughter of the late James and Jeanette (Marros) Plakas. She was the wife of the late Chris P. Heonakos who passed in 2006. She was member of the Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church in Lowell.
Nina is survived by a son James P. Heonakos, of Lowell, daughters Janet “Cookie” Flood of Lowell and Paula Lannon of Florida
She leaves behind eight grandchildren: Tanya Sras and her husband Sam of Lowell, Shannon Flood of Mrytle Beach, Garid Flood and his wife Jennie of Tyngsboro, Dakota Britton and his Fiancée Melissa Manske of Michigan, Thomas Heonakos of Lowell, Scott Lannon and Renee Ward of Florida.
14 Great-Grandchildren: Destiny and her husband, Cristian, Marques, Jocelyn, Amaya, Garid Jr., Mia, Dawson, Delilah, Michael, Christopher, Jonathan, Jessica, Kristi and Eric. 6 Great-Great, Grandchildren: Bryson, Elliana, Neveah, Aleah, Skylar and Prinston.
She was predeceased by her son Peter J. Heonakos and grandson Christopher T. Lannon.
Nina worked at Howard Johnsons, later called Brambles and then later The Ground Round in Chelmsford for well over 40 years. She was a tireless worker and retired at 78 years old when the Ground Round closed. She was well loved by all the staff and customers. “No one’s finer than Nina” was a phase heard very often. Nina loved spending the holidays with her family. Nina enjoyed going to yard sales on Saturday morning with her daughter Cookie and longtime family friend Debbie Verfaillie. She was often recognized and was asked many times if she worked at Howard Johnsons. Nina also enjoyed going to the Senior Center in Lowell for exercise class where she made many friends of all ages. Nina loved collecting vintage and odd items which became some of her prized possessions. She loved doing her crafts, making cards and scrapbooking which she was very talented at. Nina also enjoyed gardening where she was often found in her back yard tending to her many plants and flowers.
Nina’s life was defined by Love, Faith, and Family.
At her wishes there will be no calling hours. There will be a funeral service held for her at the Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church in Lowell, on Monday, January 29, at 11:00 am.
God Bless Her and May She Rest in Eternal Peace.
