James Stephen Spiridopoulos

James “Jim” Spiridopoulos passed away on April 29, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was 80 years old.

Born in Washington, D.C., on December 7, 1944, to Stephen and Angela Spiridopoulos, Jim dedicated his life to education, athletics, and family. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Gretchen (Henesy); daughter Lisa (Josh Herman); son Greg (Sheffra); sister Mary (Cranford); and his cherished grandchildren Audrey, Mackenzie, and Bryce.

Jim graduated from DeMatha High School and went on to High Point University, where he played basketball and began developing the passion for the sport that would define much of his life and career. After graduating, he went on to teach physical education in Virginia for over five decades, where he not only educated but inspired generations of students.

A passionate and accomplished coach, Coach Spiro led numerous sports teams throughout his career, but his greatest love was women’s basketball. He coached at DeMatha, Sidwell Friends, George Mason High School, Bishop O’Connell High School, and Robinson High School, leaving a lasting impact at each.

In 1998, Jim led George Mason High School to a Virginia State Championship and was named the VA Coach of the Year. He was honored as the All-Met DC Coach of the Year in 1989. His outstanding contributions to athletics were recognized with inductions into both the George Mason and Bishop O'Connell Athletic Halls of Fame.

After retiring to Hilton Head, South Carolina, 20 years ago, Jim stayed active and engaged—playing golf three times a week at Dolphin Head Golf Club and volunteering for several years as an assistant coach at Hilton Head High School. A true sports enthusiast, he never missed watching games —especially when it came to women’s college basketball, the WNBA, or his beloved Washington Redskins.

Jim will be remembered for his deep love of family, his unwavering dedication to his players and students, and his lifelong passion for sports. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched both on and off the court.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that you donate to: First Tee of the Low Country or your favorite charity of choice.