It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Brother Phillip T. Frangos, a revered leader, who served the Order of AHEPA as Supreme President and as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Brother Phillip, a Life Member of Wolverine Chapter 142, Lansing, Michigan, passed away, July 27, 2024, just one day after the conclusion of the 102nd Supreme Convention in Larnaca, Cyprus.
Phillip T. Frangos was a cornerstone of the AHEPA community, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements. His tenure as Supreme President (2014 -2015), and as Chairman of the Board of Trustees in the late-1980s, were marked by significant milestones that profoundly impacted the organization and its mission to promote Hellenic ideals of education, philanthropy, and civic responsibility.
One of Phillip’s most distinguished accomplishments as Board Chairman was his pivotal role in securing the headquarters building for AHEPA in Washington, D.C. This acquisition not only provided a central hub for the organization but also symbolized a lasting commitment to advocating for Greek American issues and supporting the broader Hellenic community. Also, as chairman, he participated in the presentation of AHEPA’s $612,000 donation toward the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island to the restoration drive’s chairman, Lee Iacocca, then-head of Chrysler Corporation.
As Supreme President, Phillip was instrumental in revitalizing AHEPA’s membership, leading initiatives that expanded the organization’s reach across the United States, Canada, and Europe. His legacy is further marked by his fundraising efforts for the rebuilding of the Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine at the World Trade Center, which demonstrated his dedication to preserving and promoting Hellenic heritage and faith. As a result, he would represent AHEPA at the historic Ground Blessing Ceremony for St. Nicholas, laying one of the 24 white marble stones placed there.
Moreover, during his term, Phillip led Ahepans by participating at events in Selma to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March for voting rights. That year, AHEPA honored Civil Rights Icon, the late Congressman John Lewis, with the Pericles Award.
Throughout his presidency, Phillip traveled extensively, logging over 60,000 miles to engage with AHEPA chapters worldwide, fostering unity and promoting the organization’s values. His dedication to the Journey to Greece program enriched countless students by providing them with immersive experiences in Greek culture and history. Phillip was also a passionate orator who never shied away from communicating the rich and intense Hellenic history that influences the world around us. His speeches were known for their eloquence and depth, inspiring many to appreciate and uphold the values of Hellenism. He also was an avid participant at AHEPA’s annual Capitol Hill Days.
At this Supreme Convention in Cyprus, a historic first for the organization, Phillip enjoyed the proud moment of witnessing his son, Themistocles Frangos, being sworn in as Supreme Treasurer, continuing the Frangos family’s legacy of service to AHEPA. This moment highlighted Phillip’s enduring influence and the deep respect he garnered within the organization.
“Brother Phillip’s passing is a tremendous loss to the AHEPA family and the wider Hellenic community,” Supreme President Savas C. Tsivicos said. “His leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to service have left an indelible mark on all who knew him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work. May his memory be eternal, and may we honor his legacy by continuing to uphold the values he so passionately championed.”
SOURCE; AHEPA
