The Falling Asleep of John George Gallins

It is with great sadness, but with hope in the Resurrection, that we announce the falling asleep of our brother in the Lord, John George Gallins. May his memory be eternal!

John George Gallins, 100, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at his home on May 27, 2026. John was born November 28, 1925, in Winston-Salem to George Demetrios and Penelope Tsitsera Gallins. Winston-Salem was his home for his entire life. Following his graduation from Reynolds High School, John served in the United States Navy. After returning home from World War II, he met the love of his life, Jeannie Fellos, whom he married on July 2, 1950, and who lovingly called him “Johnny.” In 1948, John and his late brother Gus established Gallins Cigarette Company, which later became Gallins Vending Company, one of the largest independent vendors in North Carolina.

He was an active member of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. Johnny rarely missed a chance to play a round of golf with his friends at Forsyth Country Club. He was devoted to his family and friends and treasured his time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. John often said he would live to be 100 years old, and he was blessed to see that dream come true. Johnny will be remembered for his deep love and devotion to Jeannie, and for the warm, welcoming home they created together where family and friends were always invited to gather.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, James and Gus; his sisters-in-law, Amanda and Athena; and his son, George. He is survived by his wife of seventy-five years, Jeannie; his children, Karen Hondros (Pat Sellars) and Pat Young (Joe); his grandchildren; Elaine Reed (Wes), John Hondros (Brooke), Kelly Williams (David) and Ashley Gibson (Brice); and his beloved great-grandchildren; John Peter and Jacob Hondros, Jeannie Reed, Harrison and George Williams, and Stewart and Bennett Gibson. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his longtime caregiver and devoted friend, Robin Reavis, as well as his caring companions, Jennifer Pettigrew and Pat Johnson, for their kindness and dedication. They also deeply appreciate the compassionate care provided by his Piedmont Home Care team. The family is truly indebted to all of his caregivers, including Trellis Supportive Care, whose support made it possible for John to remain in the comfort of his home.

A visitation will be held Monday, June 1 at 12:30 pm, followed by the funeral service at 1:30 pm at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. Interment will be private at Forsyth Memorial Park Cemetery. 

Those wishing to honor his memory may make memorial contributions to Trellis Supportive Care, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston Salem, NC 27103, or Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, onrealm.org/wsgoc/give/memorials 435 Keating Drive, Winston-Salem, NC 27104. Condolences may be shared at www.salemfh.com.