Tom Pappas, founder of Franklinton's long-standing Tommy's Diner, dies

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Athanasios "Tommy" Pappas, the founder of a Columbus diner known as a staple in the Franklinton neighborhood, has died.

Pappas, who opened Tommy's Diner at 914 W. Broad St. more than 30 years ago alongside his wife Kathy, died peacefully on Monday with his family by his side, his son and current owner Michael Pappas announced on social media.

"His larger than life personality will be severely missed and will leave a massive void in our lives. He was a legend with an incredible story," the post said. "I'm honored to be his son and I look forward to continuing his legacy at the diner."

The Franklinton spot boasts a menu of traditional diner fare, including breakfast items like waffles, pancakes, French toast and eggs, lunch selections like sandwiches and burgers, and dinner offerings like meatloaf, roast beef and chicken.

Tommy's was featured earlier this year on Guy Fieri's Food Network show "Diners, Dive-ins and Dives." Michael told NBC4 at the time that what makes Tommy's special goes beyond the food.

"It's all about community, right? ... My dad's presence here every day for the longest time and remembering customers, you know, that's one of the most impressive things about him is he doesn't forget people," he said. "I think his presence here, my presence here, and getting to know our customers and building relationships with people, I think that's really helped us."

Michael said the thing he was most looking forward to about Tommy's appearance on Food Network was the attention it brought to the food of Columbus.

"Honestly, what makes me the most proud is kind of being able to put Columbus in the national spotlight," Pappas said. "I think Columbus has a very underrated food scene, and it doesn't get recognition nationally. There's a lot of amazing chefs in the city, amazing restaurants."