The Life of Ethel D. Cacheris

Ethel Dominick Cacheris, age 95, of Alexandria, VA, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2024, of cancer.

Ethel was born on July 2, 1928, in Columbia, SC, to the late Ethel W. and Howard B. Dominick. She grew up in Washington, DC, and attended Western High School (Duke Ellington School of the Arts), where she met her future and adored husband, Plato Cacheris. They were happily married for 64 years, enjoying family time and traveling the world, until Plato’s death in 2019.

Ethel graduated from Virginia Intermont College in 1948. She worked at the General Services Administration and served as a secretary in the Eisenhower White House until 1957, when the first of her children was born. Thereafter, Ethel dedicated herself to being a stellar wife and mother, renowned for her culinary adventures and expert sewing skills. She could create anything, perfectly, in her kitchen or on her sewing machine. Her dinner parties were legendary, and she and Plato were fun and gracious hosts. With her sparkling personality, clever mind and ready wit, Ethel made and kept friends for life, but her favorite times were spent with her beloved family. Those who knew and loved her will always remember and dearly miss her generous spirit, warm heart and brilliant smile.

Ethel is survived by daughter Lisa Cacheris Burnett (Tracy), son Byron Cacheris, granddaughter Nora Burnett, brother Hayne B. Dominick (Jan), brother-in-law James Cacheris (Sally), nephews and nieces including Nicholas Dominick and EJ Dominick Smith, and dear friends. Ethel’s best friend since kindergarten, Marian B. Treakle, along with other special friends from high school days, also survive her. Private services are planned.