Peabody - Minas James Dakos, 88, a lifelong resident of Peabody, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 14, 2025 at Ledgewood Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center in Beverly surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of the late Maria (Kazogles) Dakos with whom he shared 57 years of marriage before her passing in 2019. He was born on February 22, 1937 in Peabody and was the cherished son of the late James and Theodora (Liatsis) Dakos. Minas grew up in Peabody and attended Peabody Public Schools. A natural leader, he served as President of the Peabody High School, Class of 1954. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government from Boston University and later a Master's degree in Education from Salem State College. Minas dedicated 35 years of his career to teaching at Pentucket Regional School, where he impacted countless students with his knowledge, guidance, and commitment to education. Outside the classroom, he was deeply involved in athletics, serving for many years as a respected baseball umpire and basketball referee—a role he continued even after his retirement from teaching. Following his retirement from education, Minas continued his public service as a bail commissioner for the Middleton Jail, Peabody Police, and Lynnfield Police. His civic involvement extended further, as he served on several city boards, most notably the Peabody Housing Authority, where he gave over 53 years of dedicated service, and the liquor licensing board. Minas's life reflected his love of community, his devotion to fairness, and his dedication to public service. He will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for the integrity, warmth, and commitment he brought to every role he held. Minas is the loving father of James Dakos of Peabody, Frances Dakos and her partner Christopher Bell of Portugal and Theodora D'Angelo and her husband Steven of Grafton. He is the cherished grandfather of Michael Shaheen, Andrew, Anthony and Alexis D'Angelo and Christian Dakos. He is the caring brother of Joyce Evangelidis and her husband Kosmas of Peabody, Katherine Mallios of Danvers and her late husband Bill and brother-in-law of Joanna Kazogles of Leominster and her late husband Stanley. Minas is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn St. Peabody on Sunday, September 28, 2025 from 2 to 5 p.m. His funeral service will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Peabody Veterans Memorial High School Athletic Department by mailing a check made out to PHS Athletic Revolving Account to Peabody Athletic Dept, Attn: Gayle Orgrabisz, 485 Lowell St., Peabody, MA 01960. For guestbook and directions please visit www.ccbfuneral.com.