News Summary
The Raleigh community deeply mourns the passing of Beba Hangelia Zevgolis, a dedicated public servant and beloved community member, who enriched the lives of many. At 91 years old, her legacy includes notable roles in the FBI and extensive involvement in local charities. Beba was celebrated for her unwavering faith and commitment to family, leaving behind a strong legacy through her children and grandchildren. The community will remember her warmth and service.
Raleigh, North Carolina — Obituary of Beba Hangelia Zevgolis
The Raleigh community mourns the loss of Beba Hangelia Zevgolis, a lifelong resident, community member, and veteran of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), who passed away at the age of 91. Her death marks the end of a life rich with dedication to public service, faith, and family.
Early Life and Immigration
Beba Hangelia Zevgolis was born on March 6, 1932, on the island of Rhodes, Greece. She was the daughter of Elias and Stamatia Hangelia. At three years old, in 1935, she emigrated with her mother and brother from Greece to the United States through Ellis Island aboard the Conte Grande. Her family initially settled in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, before moving to Burlington, North Carolina. She graduated from Burlington High School, establishing roots in her new homeland.
Career and Public Service
Following her education, Beba moved to Washington, DC, where she began her career at the FBI. Her early work included roles in the typing pool and records department. She later served as an assistant to two FBI agents, and it was during this period that she famously noted riding the elevator with J. Edgar Hoover, the FBI’s legendary director.
On August 31, 1952, Beba married George P. Zevgolis. The couple enjoyed a marriage that lasted 58 years until his passing in 2010. After raising her children, Beba returned to federal service at the Naval Research Laboratory. She worked diligently at the lab for nearly 40 years before retiring in 1996.
In 2000, Beba and George moved to the Raleigh, North Carolina area, where she became an active member of her local community and church.
Faith and Community Involvement
Beba was a devoted member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Raleigh. She actively participated in the Ladies Philoptochos Society, a charitable organization within the church. Her faith and service were recognized with the Archangel Michael Award. In 2020, she received a nomination for the National Philoptochos AGAPE Award, highlighting her ongoing dedication to community service.
Personal Interests and Hobbies
An enthusiastic supporter of the Carolina Hurricanes, Beba remained a season ticket holder into her eighties. She had unique moments of engagement with her favorite team, including riding the Zamboni during intermissions at a Canes game. She also experienced a significant moment of fandom when she touched the Stanley Cup after the Hurricanes’ victory in 2006.
Family and Legacy
Beba Hangelia Zevgolis was predeceased by her parents, her brother Michael Hangelia, and her husband George P. Zevgolis. She is survived by her children, Paul (Kaori) Zevgolis and Susan (Martin) Zevgolis Condon. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Christopher (Danielle) Zevgolis, Stephen Zevgolis, Arianthe Zevgolis Condon, and Hana Zevgolis, as well as her great-grandchildren: Brady and Brooke Zevgolis.
Funeral Arrangements
A visitation will be held on Friday, September 26th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with Trisagion Prayers starting at 7:00 pm, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Raleigh. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, September 27th, at 11:00 am at the same church, followed by interment at Raleigh Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, located at 5000 Lead Mine Rd., Raleigh, NC 27612. Service arrangements are handled by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, located at 300 Saint Mary’s St., Raleigh, NC.
Legacy and Remembrance
Beba Hangelia Zevgolis will be remembered for her warmth, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family, faith, and community. Her life story reflects a remarkable journey from Greece to becoming an integral part of her American community, dedicated to service and faith.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Beba Hangelia Zevgolis Obituary
- Wikipedia: Greek Americans
- Dignity Memorial: Obituaries in Raleigh
- Google Search: Beba Hangelia Zevgolis
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Federal Bureau of Investigation
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
