Thomas Stratis, age 72, passed away peacefully at home the morning of July 29, 2026. A resident of Daytona, Tom was born in Plainfield, New Jersey. Educated initially in South Plainfield, New Jersey, he then continued in Baltimore, Maryland, where he graduated from Woodlawn High School. It was during the years in Baltimore where he helped in the family restaurant and began his restaurant career.

After graduation, the family relocated to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where Tom trained to become the chef of Steve’s Restaurant, mentored by his father. He continued in the restaurant business, eventually working elsewhere in the Daytona area, then becoming part-owner of the Mardi Gras snack bar on the Boardwalk and years later owner of Louis’ Pizza on Beville Road.

From early in his youth and into adulthood Tom cultivated a strong interest in cars and motorcycles. He was an excellent mechanic and even built his own bike that he eventually raced at the speedway. He later developed a passion for cycling.

After selling Louis’ Pizza years later, Tom entered into a second career in pest control, where he worked for a few decades. He retired in 2025, after which he enjoyed traveling, especially to Greece, and pursuing his many hobbies. However, Tom especially enjoyed spending as much time as possible, together with his wife, with their children, grandchildren and family.

Tom was a devout member of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church and served many years on the Parish Council, including on the executive board. Each year he could be found at the Greek Festival making loukoumades. He was also an active member of the Order of AHEPA, where he served various offices, including as President.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents Stavros (Steve) and Anne Stratis, of New Smyrna Beach, Florida; and grandparents, Thomas & Frances Galanos and Nikolaos & Maria Stratis of Andros, Greece.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years Demetria (Dee) Papalambros Stratis; their children April Paventi (Nick) and Steven Stratis (Alexandra); and grandchildren Gianna, Santina, Allegra, & Michael Paventi and Anastasia & Melina Stratis.

He is also survived by his brothers Dr. Nicholas Stratis of Tallahassee, FL and Rev. Anthony Stratis (Elaine) of Knoxville, TN. Tom is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and godchildren in the United States and Greece as well as countless friends. He was greatly loved and respected by them al;.

The care of Thomas Stratis is under the careful direction of Lohman Funeral Home Daytona, 1423 Bellevue Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, 386-267-1100.

A Visitation will take place from 10 AM to 11 AM, followed by a Funeral Service at 11 AM on Tuesday, August 4th, 2026, at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 129 N Halifax Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118. Burial will follow immediately after at 12 PM at Daytona Memorial Park, 1425 Bellevue Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32114.