A Pan-Laconian Society Founding Member Stavroula Pandos Turns 99!

"Her 'human wealth' — three children, eight grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren."
- Stavroula Pandos' Family Legacy

 

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, there are moments of pure joy and inspiration that remind us of the beauty of life. Today, as we celebrate the 99th birthday of our beloved Stavroula Pandos, we are reminded that age is but a number, and the human spirit can remain as vibrant and creative as ever.

Stavroula Pandos, née Laganas, is a living legend within the Pan-Laconian Society, a popular poet, and one of our cherished founding members. Born sometime in 1924, no one knows exactly when, the actual birthdate is shrouded in uncertainty; such were the recordkeeping practices of that era. In a delightful twist of tradition however, she chooses to celebrate her birthday on September 14, aligning it with her nameday. Hailing from the picturesque village of Kastania (present-day Kastoreio), nestled at the base of the legendary Taygetos Mountains, Stavroula truly embodies the spirit and essence of Laconia.

Stavroula's "human wealth"

As the youngest of seven children born to Giorgis and Giannoula Laganas, Stavroula faced the challenges of her time with determination and resilience. In an era when educational opportunities for village children were scarce, more so for young girls, she defied the odds and completed her primary education during the tumultuous years of the Great Depression.

Stavroula had a strong desire for knowledge, but she couldn't pursue higher education due to the challenging circumstances her family and many others in the countryside were facing. However, her life took a positive turn when, at the age of 26, she married Evangelos Pandos, who was both her true love and a fellow villager. Their wedding, celebrated on March 25, 1951, during Kastania's national day festivities, was a joyful occasion highlighted by the Dance of Isaiah.

Thirty months later, Stavroula, Evangelos, and their 19-month-old daughter embarked on a life-changing journey to Australia. They sailed aboard the migrant ship Skaubryn, bidding farewell to their beloved Kastania on October 26, 1953, the Feast Day of Agios Dimitrios. In Adelaide, they lovingly raised three children: Charikleia, Ioanna, and Alekos.

The Pandos family holds a special place in the heart of the Pan-Laconian Society of SA "Leonidas." Evangelos dedicated years of service to the society, including a term as its president, considering it a representative body for all South Australians of Lakonian descent.

Though Evangelos sadly passed away in 2008, Stavroula, at the age of 99, continues to exemplify the family's unwavering commitment to the club. Despite her health challenges, when well enough she eagerly participates in Pan-Laconian functions, captivating audiences with her epic poems filled with wisdom, wit, and inspiration. Yet, what brings her the greatest joy is what she calls her "human wealth" — three children, eight grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

Chronia Polla, Stavroula! Happy 99th Birthday, and may your days be filled with happiness and inspiration. May you long continue to grace our gatherings with your wisdom and poetic words, reminding us that age is no obstacle to a life well-lived.