Helen “Yiayia” James (Kitsoulis) Sempeles, 86, of Winchester, passed away peacefully at her home in Winchester on June 15, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Born in Washington D.C. on September 14, 1938, Helen was the second of Milton and Erasmia (Economo) Kitsoulis’ seven children.
Helen graduated with honors from Coolidge High School in Washington D.C. Shortly after, she married James “Jimmy” George Sempeles on June 24, 1956, in Washington D.C. In 1960, the newlyweds moved to Winchester, Virginia, where they would raise their three children and operate the family restaurant, the Open Hearth/Jimmy’s. Helen was also an active member of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church and the Philoptochos Ladies Society.

Helen’s days were largely defined by her family. As a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, her unending commitment and unwavering love were the guiding forces of her life. Her constant devotion to her family, her ability to always make us smile, and her love of a good snack will be deeply missed.

Helen was preceded in death by her brother James Kitsoulis; her husband, Jimmy; her parents Milton and Erasmia and her brother-in-law James T. Sigros.

Helen is survived by her children: Constance “Dee” Koutris (James), George James Sempeles (Lisa) and Erasmia “Roxy” Roland (David); her grandchildren: Kristin Fellers (Brandon), James “Jimmy” Sempeles, and Nicholas James Koutris (Kelli); her great grandchildren: Taylor James and Isabella Fellers; siblings: Victoria Sigros, Freida McNerney (Brian), Anne Kitsoulis, Christ Kitsoulis (Liz) and William Kitsoulis; along with her many loving nieces, nephews and dear friends that became like family.

Helen’s funeral will be held at noon on Monday, June 23rd at the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Winchester. Interment will be at Mt. Hebron Cemetery, followed by a celebration of Helen’s life at Omps Reception Center.

Pallbearers: Brandon Fellers (grandson-in-law), Jimmy Sempeles (grandson), Jimmy Galbraith (nephew), Michael Sempeles (nephew), Nicholas Koutris (grandson), Randy Baker (friend), Steven Yeatras, and Telly Sigros (nephew)

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Helen Sempeles may be sent to: Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, 1700 Amherst St, Winchester, VA 22601.