Sofia Dimovich

Sofia Dimovich, 90, formerly of Syracuse, passed away peacefully on Monday in Virginia Beach, VA. Born in Florina, Greece, Sofia emigrated to the United States, where she and her late husband, Anastas Dimovich, built a rich and fulfilling life together in Syracuse.

For over 45 years, Sofia and Anastas were proud owners and operators of several stores and restaurants in the Syracuse area, leaving a lasting mark on the community with their hard work, hospitality, and dedication. Sofia and Anastas were also sponsors and stewards to hundreds of immigrants from Greece and Macedonia, securing them jobs and housing, and helping them build new lives in America.

Sofia was a devoted and longtime member of St. Sophia’s Greek Orthodox Church in Syracuse, where her faith and love for her heritage shone brightly. She was a founding member of the relocated St. Sophia's Greek Orthodox Church. Sofia survived the Nazi occupation of her hometown during World War II and the later Civil War with the Communists, enduring immense hardship with courage and resilience. Her first job in the U.S. was at the Nettleton Shoe Factory, where she met her beloved husband, Anastas.

Sofia was also an active participant in the Onondaga County Republican Party and gave generously of her time and energy, volunteering for numerous organizations and causes close to her heart. In her later years, Sofia relocated to Virginia Beach to live with her beloved daughter, Maria. Though she left Syracuse, she carried with her the cherished memories of a life well-lived and the friendships she had nurtured over decades.

Above all, Sofia treasured her family and friends. She found immense joy in their company and was known for her warmth, kindness, and the love she shared with everyone around her.

Sofia was predeceased by her loving husband of 46 years, Anastas; and her parents. 

Surviving are her daughter, Maria Lerman of Virginia Beach, VA; son, Louis (Brenda) Dimovich of Martha’s Vineyard, MA; sisters, Miranda Rumsey of Auburn and Rullie Kozaris of Florina, Greece; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

To celebrate Sofia’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Friday, January 10, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m., with Trisagion service at 3:30 p.m., at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 10 a.m. in St. Sophia’s Greek Orthodox Church, 325 Waring Rd., Syracuse, NY 13224.

Sofia will be laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery, Syracuse.

In Sofia’s memory, contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, CNY Chapter, 5015 Campuswood Dr., Suite 102, E. Syracuse, NY 13057 or to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, 13770 Noel Rd., Suite 801889, Dallas, TX 75380.