Roger Smirlis, a lifelong resident of Pinellas and Pasco counties, was taken from this life on July 11, 2024 at age 74.

A man of great Christian faith, Roger was one of two sons born to the late Murdine and Stelios “Steve” Smirlis in Tarpon Springs, FL on December 19, 1949.

A gifted and talented musician, Roger enjoyed playing piano, guitar and singing from an early age. In his later years, Roger often shared his musical gifts by entertaining nursing home residents, friends and family.

Roger’s passions included not only music but storytelling, shark fishing, long-distance walking, pool-playing, weight-lifting and baking.

From a young age, Roger worked in, and eventually ran, his family’s well-known and storied Smirlis Bakery in downtown Tarpon Springs. Years after its closing, residents and visitors can still recall the bakery’s aromatic output of its famous bread.

In 1969, Roger married DeeAnne Freeman with whom they had daughter Dara Thomason (Jay).

Roger married Karen Keena in 1982. To them were born daughter, Elizabeth Pierce (Tim) and son Roger Smirlis, affectionately known as “Little Roger.” Additionally, together they shared daughter Nicole Beck (Gill).

Roger’s brother Steve (Debbie), with whom he shared his family’s bakery, also survives.

Roger leaves behind 7 grandchildren – Brendon, Ella and Greyson Thomason; Jayda Gignac and Maddox Pierce; and Landon and Caleb Beck. Roger was fondly known to his grandchildren as “Papou.”

Also surviving are his nieces, Georgianne Smirlis-Gibson (Tracy) and Stephanie Smirlis (Xavier Hernandez), nephews John Smirlis (Nicole) and Stevie Smirlis, as well as many great nieces and nephews.

Outside of God and family, Roger was most proud to be a US Navy veteran. He was honorably

discharged in November, 1970, after serving overseas in support of the VietNam War. He would often tell stories to his children and grandchildren about his service to his country.

Roger’s family will always remember his worshipful voice in singing his favorite gospel song “Majesty.”

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” – Revelation 21:4.