Dr. Vassilios J. Theodorides, a veterinarian, dedicated community leader, and passionate advocate for the Pontian Greek community, passed away on November 4, 2024. Born and raised in the small village of Konstantia, Greece on February 20, 1931, he lived through the German occupation of his village and the despair of the post-Greek Civil War. As a teenager, he walked eleven kilometers a day, back and forth to attend high school. That determination and discipline to attain a formal education shaped his life. Dr. Theodorides lived a remarkable life marked by his unwavering commitment to his family, his profession, and his Greek heritage.

Dr. Theodorides was a highly respected and brilliant veterinarian and academic, having earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the Aristotelian University, Thessaloniki, Greece, Veterinary School and a Master's Degree and Ph.D from Boston University. He dedicated his professional life to advancing the field of veterinary and human medicine. Dr. Theodorides' research and significant contributions include the discovery of the drug Albendazole which is still used today as an anti-parasitic drug throughout the world.

Beyond his academic and professional achievements, Dr. Theodorides was a tireless advocate for the Pontian Greek community. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Pontian Genocide Memorial in Philadelphia, a monument that honors the victims of the tragic events of the early 20th century. His dedication to preserving the history and culture of the Pontian Greeks was an inspiration to many.

Dr. Theodorides was a loving husband of sixty-six (66) years to his wife Soula, a devoted father to his children Artemis, Amalia and Electra, a cherished grandfather to his grandchildren William and Anastasia and great grandchildren Paul and Zoe. He also loved his children's and grand-children's spouses: John, Michael, Dennis and Kate.  He cherished the time he spent with many friends and was always there to help anyone in need.  He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched.

A funeral service celebrating Dr. Theodorides' life will be held at St. George Greek Orthodox Church on November 7, 2024 at 11 am. A viewing will be held from 10-11 AM also at St. George Greek Orthodox Church.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the St. George Greek Orthodox Church:

St. George Greek Orthodox Church

30 E Forge Rd.

Media, PA 19063