William Vangelos

William “Billy” Vangelos of Raleigh passed away July 1, 2022 after a nearly year-long battle with cancer. Billy was born June 5, 1965, in Durham to Anastasia Mariakakis Vangelos and the late George Vangelos, original owner of Brothers Pizza on Hillsborough Street. Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God – Matthew 5:8 – served as Billy’s guide for living life. Billy never knew a stranger and always put others needs ahead of his own. He frequently took note of acquaintance’s birthdays and was the first to send good wishes. Billy was an enthusiastic Duke fan but was quick to adopt Jim Valvano’s positive outlook and well known ‘never give up’ mantra. Smart, talented, and an entrepreneur like his dad, with support from his childhood friend, Billy started his own construction company soon after graduating from High School. Through his construction company, Billy enhanced the lives of many with his quality home additions and improvements. With a knack for using his hands, Billy spent his free time restoring and repairing cars so others could enjoy their rides. Always putting others first, Billy provided daily support to his mother at her apartment home. He forged many relationships with fellow residents who were quick to offer words of wisdom and support. Billy is survived by his mother Anastasia Vangelos and enjoyed her special blend of a Greek mother’s love and protective nature until the end. He is also survived by brother Angelo Vangelos of Raleigh, his adoring sister Athena Banks who served as his best friend and caregiver for the many months of this arduous journey and her loving husband Johnny, and nephews William Brooks, Justin Brett, and Nicholas Bode Banks of Garner; and many extended family members in New York, Ohio, Virginia, and Athens and Kozani, Greece. Billy was grateful for his many friendships but especially the genuine, lifelong friendships with Jim Bradley and Tom Jackson. Billy was lovingly cared for by “Dr. Boots” and the many 5th floor doctors, nurses, and staff at Duke Raleigh Hospital. A special thank you to these amazing individuals who gave countless hours and endless love to ensure Billy lived comfortably and with humor in his final months. The private graveside service will be conducted by Father Stavroforos of St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, Durham, and Billy will be interred at Mountlawn Memorial Park in Raleigh. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Caring Community Foundation, P.O. Box 1364, Cary, NC 27512. Since 2001, Caring Community Foundation uses donations to support emergency financial needs of cancer patients. www.caringcommunityfoundation.org Funeral arrangements are by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Garner, Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com