Emmanuel Michael Bilirakis, MD, fell asleep in the Lord on May 3rd, 2023. He was born in Gainesville, Florida on Christmas day, December 25th, 1961, to Congressman Michael and Evelyn Bilirakis. Born two months premature, he was brought into this world through God’s grace. Emmanuel was the elder brother of Congressman Gus Bilirakis. He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Maria, their two daughters, Evelyn and Stella, his parents, and brother.

Growing up, Emmanuel was very athletic, excelling in tennis, baseball, and Greek folk dance. His love for the University of Florida Gators and all sports continued. One of his favorite activities was attending Tampa Bay Ray’s baseball games with his daughter, Evelyn. Emmanuel graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in English and attended the University of Miami School of Medicine. As an Internal Medicine physician, Emmanuel was hardworking throughout his thirty-plus years working in private practice in Palm Harbor, Florida, and at the New Port Richey VA Clinic. He was the most attentive, caring, devoted, respectful, and passionate doctor both during his time working, and after he retired in 2019. His desire to care for people never wavered, always prepared to help anyone in need. At the core of Emmanuel’s life were his Greek Orthodox faith and his love for his family. He was an active parishioner of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Tarpon Springs, his entire life and was a true example of how to live a Christian life. He shared his love for the Lord with his children every day, through his knowledge of the faith, good works, kind words, and thoughtful soul. Emmanuel’s wife and daughters were the loves of his life. There was not a day that he did not spend content, laughing, and simply enjoying his blessed life with those he loved most. He was grateful for each day. His joy and love will reverberate through the lives of everyone he met forever.

May His Memory Be Eternal.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Visitation will be on Sunday, May 7th, from 6-8 pm at St. Nicholas Cathedral, Tarpon Springs. The funeral will be at 11:00 am, Monday, May 8th, also at St. Nicholas Cathedral, followed by interment at Cycadia Cemetery.