Sylvia "Sue" Halvas

Sylvia “Sue” Halvas, cherished daughter, sister, wife, cousin, and aunt, peacefully passed away on February 12, 2024. Sylvia was born on April 9, 1940, in Newark, NJ, to Louise and Leo Sempepos. She spent her formative years in Newark, later moving to Westfield, and remaining in her home for over 35 years in Mountainside. 

Sylvia dedicated over four decades to her family's restaurant, Peter's Clam Bar, in Island Park, NY. As the owner of the restaurant, Sylvia worked devotedly alongside her mother, father, sister, brother, and brother-in-law perfecting the dining experience. Her attention to detail and care for others contributed to the restaurant's renowned success.  She treated her employees and customers like family and, in turn, they became just that.

Sylvia pursued life with great love and devotion, always putting family first. She met the love of her life, Nicholas, at a Greek dance, and they celebrated over 55 years of love and marriage following that initial meeting. Sylvia always remembered birthdays and brightened everyone’s day with a thoughtful card and gift.  She had a passion for home decor and design, often spending her free time watching HGTV home improvement shows and sharing her expertise with family and friends.

Sylvia is survived by her cousins: Patty Retsinas, Cynthia Retsinas, John Morreale, Betty and Michael Difazio, Barbara and Alex Soulios, Harry and Kathy Retsinas, George and Penny Kounis And Linda and Panos Lividiotis, sister-in-law: Carolyn Sempepos, nephews and nieces: Peter Sempepos, Christina Allian, Cynthia Sempepos, Carla Corcoran, and Philip Sempepos, as well as six great nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband: Nicholas Halvas, father: Leo Sempepos, mother: Louise Sempepos, brother: Philip Sempepos, sister: Ann Costalas, and brother-in-law: Peter Costalas.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 AM Friday, February 16th, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 250 Gallows Hill Road in Westfield, NJ. Visitation will be held at the church prior to the services from 10:15-11:00 AM. 

Sylvia will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched with her warmth and kindness. Her legacy of love, strength, dedication, and care will continue to inspire all who knew her.