John T. Vellios

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved father, Papou, and friend, John T. Vellios, on April 5, 2026, at the age of 75.

John was born on November 30, 1950, to John and Margaret Vellios (Delisi) in South Philadelphia, where his family’s roots ran deep. His family was the proud owner of George’s Sandwich Shop in the Italian Market since 1936, a place woven into the fabric of the neighborhood. He often shared stories of helping at the store as a young boy and continuing that work throughout his life before taking over ownership of the store. The Vellios family name is honored on the historical Italian Market sign as one of the honored founding families of the Italian Market, a reflection of generations of hard work, community, and pride.

John proudly served his country as a veteran of the Vietnam War. His service was a reflection of his character: steady, selfless, and grounded in commitment. Though he did not seek recognition, his commitment to his country was a meaningful part of his life.

John was a man who had two great loves: first his family, and the other, his business. As President of Liberty Bell Steak Company, he built not only a business, but a life centered around hard work, pride, and purpose. He was deeply dedicated to making his business strong and prosperous, while always ensuring a great and consistent product. His employees will forever share stories of the generous, compassionate, and supportive boss he was, someone who led with fairness, steadiness, and genuine respect for those around him.

It would be remiss not to share the kind of family man John was. He was someone you could count on in any situation, with any problem. No matter how busy he was or what time of day, he would always pick up the phone for his family and give them his full attention. He went out of his way to make life easier, happier, and filled with love for those around him.

Favorite memories include a lively poker night celebrating his 75th birthday in November; a magical and happily hectic family trip to Disney with his children and grandchildren that he treasured; countless dinner dates with his daughters, filled with conversation, laughter, and evenings that often ended shopping together—moments he truly cherished; the pride he felt in bringing his son Jonathan into Liberty Bell Steak Company to continue the family tradition; the joy he shared with Helene watching their grandchildren come into the world over the past decade.

He is survived by his devoted and adoring daughters, Dana (Evan) and Olivia (Trevor), and his proud and loyal son, Jonathan (Sarah). He will be indescribably missed as an involved and doting Papou to his eight grandchildren, Dean, Eliza, Jake, Stella, Theo, Jonah, Eleni, and Jack, who will carry forward his legacy, his stories, and every special moment they shared. He is also survived by his former wife, Helene, with whom he shared not only a loving family, but a lifelong friendship. He will be remembered by many relatives and lifelong friends who were lucky to know him and share in his life.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Margaret, his brothers, Anthony and George, and his sister, Maryann, all of whom were incredibly close to him.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Tuesday, April 14, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, immediately followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 7921 Old York Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027.  A private military interment will take place the following day, Wednesday, April 15, at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, 830 Highland Road, Newtown, PA 18940. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, support.woundedwarriorproject.org  or Philabundance, secure.philabundance.org 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John T. Vellios, please visit our floral store.