Melpo Korkovelos (Koukoutsi), age 92, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on September 10, 2025.
Born in Karpenisi, Nea Evritania, Greece, Melpo was the second of four siblings. In 1960, she married the late Demetrios Korkovelos, and together they raised two daughters, Artemisia and Dina Lena.
In 1967, Melpo and Demetrios immigrated to the United States at her insistence along with the invitation of her late brother, Vasilios Koukoutsis. They first settled in Irvington, NJ, later making Kearny, NJ their longtime home.
She worked outside the home to help support their new life in the U.S.A. and later encouraged her husband to start a business. Together, Melpo and Demetrios operated Jimmy’s Food Truck for over 20 years—a beloved staple of the Port Newark community known not just for food, but for the warmth and hospitality they brought to every customer.
Melpo loved to meet new people and felt a close connection to everyone she knew, keeping her friends close to her heart.
A gifted cook and even more extraordinary baker, Melpo’s siropiasti karidopita, ammonias koulourakia, and kolokithopita were unmatched. Her talents extended beyond the kitchen—her intricate crochet and needlepoint work were admired by all who saw them. She had a sharp mind and would memorize her recipes and her crochet patterns. She also had a great knack for remembering directions and getting around even though she did not drive.
Melpo also had a magical green thumb and could grow the most delicate plants from the smallest cutting. But more than anything, she nurtured her family with strength, care, and boundless love.
A woman of deep faith, Melpo was a longtime member of St. Demetrios Greek Church in Union, NJ. She rarely missed a Sunday service or vespers, even if she had to wake at 4 a.m. the next morning.
In retirement, she devoted herself to the Ladies’ Philoptochos Society, preparing Greek delicacies months in advance for the church’s annual festival.
She was a devoted wife, mother, yia-yia, sister, aunt, and friend. Known for her warm smile, generosity, and vibrant spirit, Melpo had a special love for Greek dancing—especially the Tsamiko—a passion she passed on to her children.
Melpo is survived by her daughters Artemis Diane (Christos Tsetsekas) and Dina Lena (Vasilios Kovoros); her beloved grandchildren Efstratios, Demetrios (Margaret, née Ipp), Melpomeni, Kristos, and Dimitri; her siblings Maria and Christos; and extended family and friends across the U.S., Greece, and Australia who will forever cherish her memory.
She is predeceased by her loving husband Demetrios, her parents Demetrios and Eleni, and her brother Vasilios.
Visiting will be on Friday, September 19th from 10:00-11:00am, with a service following and then Burial at Holy Cross Cemetery, 340 Ridge Road, No. Arlington, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Melpo’s memory may be made to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Union, NJ.
