Brooklyn - Bessie Triandafelos, a life-long Brooklynite, and insurance industry executive, passed away peacefully on November 18. She was born on January 15, 1929 to Mary and William Triandafelos. Despite not attending college, Bessie rose through the ranks in the insurance industry and was a woman executive pioneer leading a team of 150. Bessie was a mentor and a great support for those on her team and anyone she met who needed inspiration and encouragement. 

Some points to note: In High School, she earned a varsity letter in basketball when most women didn’t play sports. She loved Maine and visiting family in the Portland area. Bessie supported and was a leader in the Three Hierarchs Greek Orthodox Church in her neighborhood.

Bessie was a strong believer in family and encouraged love and connection among her many nieces and nephews. 

She is survived by her nieces, nephews, and grand nieces and nephews: Mary Leach and her husband, Richie, their daughter Tracy her husband Jamie and their daughter Makenzie and son Nick and his wife Diane; Marya Triandafellos and her partner Lena Rodriguez; Lynda Sperandio and her husband Mario and their son Alec; Michelle Anastasakos and her husband Ted and their son Jerry. Her nephews John Triandafilos; Dean Triandafellos and his wife Stacie and sons Michael and Stephen. In addition to her parents, Bessie was predeceased by her siblings George, John, James, her beloved sister Ann, and her nephews Bill and Billy. 

If you met Bessie, even casually, you didn’t forget her. Her gift was bringing great energy to the room and speaking authentically – no matter the consequences. Her kindness and fearless spirit will be her everlasting legacy. May her Memory be Eternal. Services will be held on Monday, November 22, 2021 at Three Hierarchs Greek Orthodox Church, 1724 Avenue P, Brooklyn. The church service will run from 12-12:30 PM. Interment will be at Cypress Hills Cemetery in Brooklyn from 1:45-2:15 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Make a Wish Foundation or the children’s organization of your choice.