Music struck a major chord in Peter Zervakos’ life. Whether teaching in Fulton County Public Schools, serving at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation or relaxing at home with his wife and daughters, music was often involved.
Zervakos, who majored in music at the University of Georgia, started his career in education as a band teacher at the former-College Park High School in 1979. When he retired in 2009, he was principal of Northview High, which he opened in the 2002-2003 school year.
“He felt like that 30-year mark was a good time to make a transition,” said Sally Zervakos, his wife of 25 years. “He wanted to go back to band. That was his first love.”
Zervakos became the director of bands at Roswell High, where he stayed through the 2010-2011 school year. Budget cuts kept him from returning in the fall of 2011, according to a tribute on the family’s website.
Peter Zervakos, of Johns Creek, died Sunday at Embracing Hospice in Cumming from complications of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, a degenerative neurological illness. He was 55.
A funeral is planned for 11 a.m. Friday at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation, Atlanta. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. A. S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.
When Zervakos wasn’t working for Fulton County schools, he could often be found at the cathedral, where he was the organist. The Atlanta native has been the assistant organist at the church since he was 17, his wife said. Zervakos not only provided music for church services, but established the Hellenic Community Orchestra.
“He wanted people of all abilities,” said Christina Polizos, a choir director at the church. “He was so proud of the group of musicians. He willingly gave of his time and talent all over the church.”
Another talent that Zervakos did not mind sharing was his love of food. While he was an assistant principal at Chattahoochee High School, he taught Mediterranean cuisine in the international cooking class. During a 1996 interview with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, he told a reporter he had an annual Easter picnic in his back yard. “It’s a complete Greek meal for 35 or more,” he said.
Zervakos’ wife and daughters knew him as more than an educator, church musician and cook. He took on home improvement projects and did everything he could to provide for them.
“He lived his life with such a sense of urgency,” his wife said. “He packed as much as he could into his 55 years, like he knew he didn’t have much time.”
In addition to his wife, Zervakos is survived by three daughters, Elizabeth Zervakos of Atlanta, Rachel Zervakos of Boston and Danielle Zervakos of Athens; and sister, Celeste Macris of Chamblee.
About the Author
