Thelma James Athenian Brelesky

Waterford — Thelma James Athenian Brelesky, 95, of Waterford, died Friday, July 26, 2019, at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London surrounded by her family. She was born Oct. 4, 1923, in New London to Charles and Androfily Asmanas James. Raised in Groton, she graduated Fitch High School and attended Mitchell College. She was predeceased by husbands Byron P. Athenian and Anthony Brelesky

Along with her infamous career in sports, she found purpose in caring for elders. Her dream of being a celebrity was actualized when she starred in “Great Gams Brelesky” on My Grandmother’s Ravioli, which aired on the Food Network in 2014. She derived her greatest joy from being surrounded by her loving family and friends. Along with living life to the fullest, she will always be remembered for her bountiful generosity, humor and loving spirit.

She is survived by her children, Byron Athenian and his partner Liza Sitterly; Gary Athenian; Charles Athenian and his partner Beverly Keller; Andrea Pollak and her husband Andrew Pollak; and Gregory Athenian; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Besides her husbands, she was preceded in death by brothers, Theodore James, Peter James, George James; and a sister Mary Poulos.

Visitation 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019, at the Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington St. in New London. Funeral service 9:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 2, 2019, at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Colonel Ledyard Cemetery in Groton.

Donations can be made in her memory to St. Sophia Hellenic Orthodox Church, 200 Hempstead St. in New London.

Please visit www.byles.com to sign the guest book or share a memory.