Joanne Theodora Kotsaftis, cherished mother, grandmother, sister and friend passed peacefully in Brewster, MA, on February 1, 2024 surrounded by her children. Born in Boston, MA, on June 6, 1940, she grew up in Allston and then Newton, MA. The daughter of first-generation Greek immigrants, she loved ballet and piano and took lessons as a young girl. She loved sports and had fond memories of attending a game of the Harlem Globetrotters. She was a graduate of Lasell College and worked as a waitress and later as an office administrator, where her exceptional skills in shorthand came in very handy! 
 
Mom lived in Waltham for 35 years, where she raised her children. In 1999 she had a house built in North Eastham, fulfilling her dream of owning her own home on Cape Cod - her favorite place in the world. A short, sandy walk to the beach was where she spent her days, and she loved gardening and "putzing." Frequent visits by her children and grandchildren to "Yiayia's beach house" were her joy, along with her two cats, Olivia and Otis. A voracious reader, she was a history buff and was especially enchanted by the Royals. In 2013, she visited England with her daughter Christine and found herself sitting in Prince William's favorite seat in a pub in the Cotswolds. It was moments like these that our mum lived for. She loved animals and the beach; she was very proud of her Greek ancestry, and she loved Greek food and dancing and visited Greece several times. Mum was kind, generous, and sweet, the word most often used to describe her. She had a quick wit and could have a room in stitches in a split second. She is sorely missed.
 
She is predeceased by her mother, Demetra "Jenny" (Arvanitis), and father, James Kotsaftis. She is survived by her children Christine, William, Stephen, and Althea McLaughlin; her grandchildren Evan, Billy, Eric, and Jennifer McLaughlin; her brothers Charlie and John Kotsaftis; and several nieces and nephews. Donations in her name may be made to the Animal Rescue Front in North Eastham, MA 02651. (animalrescuefront.org).
 

 
 
 
 

Chris, if I ever get to meet you in person, I want to give you a hug and we can share some smiles and tears. You had a wonderful Mom and the result of that is YOU! Love, Celia

A life of joy and fulfillment.Your loving and hearfelt tribute makes me feel like I knew her.Your Mom lives on in your memory and love of her.

Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs Chris. I loved your mom; so sorry for your loss.

Sending heartfelt condolences to you Chris and your entire family. Much love and prayers.