News Summary
Lakis ‘Lucky’ Florakis, a beloved restaurateur and community figure in Williamsburg, VA, passed away peacefully at 91. Known for his warmth, culinary talent, and strong community service, Lucky will be deeply missed by family, friends, and patrons alike. His legacy includes contributions to local businesses and various community organizations. A visitation and funeral service will honor his life and achievements.
Williamsburg, VA
Lakis “Lucky” Florakis, a cherished figure in the Williamsburg community and celebrated restaurateur, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on September 28, 2025, at his home, surrounded by family. His death has elicited a wave of tributes from family members, friends, and former employees who remember him fondly for his warm personality and culinary talent.
Born Triantafyllos Demetrios Florakis in 1934 in Karpenisi, Greece, Lucky was the youngest of five children in a family led by parents Demetrios and Ekaterina Florakis. He immigrated to the United States at the age of 15 to support his family during the turbulent communist uprising in Greece. Initially residing with a cousin in Greensboro, North Carolina, Lucky found early experience in the hospitality industry working in his cousin’s restaurant.
At 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served his country before turning to the world of business. After attending a friend’s wedding in Williamsburg, Lucky decided to settle there. This decision led to the co-founding of the W&M Restaurant in 1955 alongside a friend from his hometown, which later evolved into A.J. & L, Corporation, now recognized as the largest privately held employer in Williamsburg.
Throughout his life, Lucky actively engaged in community service, participating in various organizations such as the Jay Cees, Kiwanis Club, The Raleigh Tavern Society, and AHEPA. He also held memberships in both the Free Masons and the Shriners, reflecting his commitment to service and community outreach.
Lucky was known not only for his exceptional culinary skills but also for his authenticity and passion for connecting with his patrons, many of whom became lifelong friends. His personal life was equally rich; he married his loving wife MaryAnn in Williamsburg, and the couple celebrated 61 years of marriage together. They raised three sons: Demetrios, Nicholas, and Constantine, instilling in them the values of independence and resilience.
Lucky’s family extended as he became the proud grandfather to numerous grandchildren, including Ellianna, Triantafyllos, Lakis, Katerina, Michael, Isaiah, Stella, and Costa. His legacy also includes two great-grandchildren, Ivy and Nicholas, ensuring his family ties will endure for generations to come.
His passing has left a significant void in the hearts of many, prompting community members to extend condolences and share their memories of a man who not only contributed to the local economy but also fostered a sense of community in Williamsburg. A visitation is scheduled for October 3, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, featuring a Trisagion service at 6:00 PM. Lucky’s funeral service will take place the following day, October 4, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the same church, followed by interment at Cedar Grove Cemetery with military honors. Services will be officiated by Father George Chioros.
The Williamsburg community will remember Lakis “Lucky” Florakis for his rich contributions to local culture and for his profound impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: Lakis Florakis Obituary
- Dignity Memorial: Lakis Florakis
- WYDaily: Planning Commission Reappointment
- Daily Press: James “Mike” Kokolis Obituary
- Wikipedia: Greek Americans
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City 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 Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
