Denna Drulias Theodore "Yiayia"

Yiayia was born in Kalo Nero, Greece to George and Lambrini Drulias on November 9, 1928. Surrounded by her loving family and friends at the beautiful age of 95, God decided it was time for her to enter his kingdom and embrace the love of her life Alex, daughter Anastasia, and other family members on February 20, 2024. A life lived with an abundance of love, happiness and people who cherished her. If you ever met her, and many of you have, you immediately fell in love with her, and she made you feel like family.

She came to the United States with her brother Chris through Ellis Island, New York, in 1952 and then came across the country to Bakersfield in the same year.

She loved her Orthodox faith, her church and Greek heritage. She was a devoted member of the St. George Greek Orthodox Church, the Philoptochos Society, Daughters of Penelope and the choir.

In accordance to Greek tradition, a handsome young man named Alexandros Theodoropoulos, was chosen by her family to be "match made" together. He sent her passionate love letters from Greece, and she was swept off her feet. After Alex arrived in Bakersfield and she met him for the first time, it was truly a match. "Love at first sight". Three months later, they were married. She was the family matriarch filled with strength that she passed on to her three amazing children, Anastasia, Elaine and Kosta (Gus).

Her life and wisdom instilled a strong work ethic in her children which led to the purchasing of the A & W Rootbeer Restaurant on South Chester in 1974 and in a proud Greek tradition the name was changed to Alex's T & W Restaurant which stands for "Alex Theodore and Wife". She was so proud! It was a family business where hard work, laughter and memories were made. Having confidence in her children to manage the family business, she and Alex along with their close knit family and friends, enjoyed numerous trips to Las Vegas, Laughlin and their homeland Greece.

 Yiayia was a devoted Bakersfield High School Driller and could always be seen in the stands supporting her children in various sports and activities that they excelled in. That tradition and support carried on to her grandchildren.

 "ONCE A DRILLER, ALWAYS A DRILLER"

 She was a proud mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend to all. She was and will always be known as "YIAYIA".

 Preceding her in death are her husband Alex, daughter Anastasia, four sisters and three brothers.

Honoring her life and carrying on her legacy is her daughter Elaine Solan (Bill), son Gus Theodore (Trish), son-in-law Pete Mitchell (fiancé Dawn Williams), sister Effie Athens, grandchildren Peter Mitchell (Kristyne), Alex Mitchell, Callie Loera (Christian), Kameron Theodore and Nickolas Solan. Great grandchildren Anastasia and PJ (Peter Jo) Mitchell. Also, numerous nieces, nephews, godchildren and extended family.

Yiayia's family wishes to thank everyone who reached out in so many ways to show their support and love.

Trisagion Service will be held Sunday evening March 3rd, 7:00pm at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 401 Truxtun Ave. Funeral Service will be held on Monday March 4th, 1 0:00am also at St. George. Graveside service to follow at Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the St. George Greek Orthodox Church in memory of Denna Drulias Theodore.

A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN IS NOW COMPLETE!

"MAY HER MEMORY BE ETERNAL"