Dr. James George Sousoulas' Obituary
Dr. James George Sousoulas, born May 29, 1928, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 28, 2023. He was the second son of George F. and Mary Sousoulas, both of Memphis, Tennessee.
Orphaned at a young age with the untimely loss of both parents, Jim, alongside his brother Frank, journeyed to Athens, Greece, where their cousin, George Cousaftis, became their guardian.
Educational endeavors at the American School in Athens were abruptly interrupted by the onset of World War II, compelling their return to the United States. Upon returning, Jim attended Gulf Coast Military Academy. After completing junior high school, he returned to Memphis, and while simultaneously managing the family's restaurant and pursuing his education, he graduated from Christian Brothers High School.
Their father’s legacy, the iconic North Memphis Café, renowned for its soulful culinary delights, played a central role in their early lives. This establishment was immortalized in a famous song, "North Memphis Blues," by the acclaimed blues singer Memphis Minnie, a testament to its cultural significance in the Memphis community. Despite their success in the restaurant business, both brothers eventually embarked on separate career paths.
Jim excelled in his studies, graduating with a BS degree in chemistry from Memphis State University, followed by the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry, graduating first in his class, marking the beginning of his illustrious dental career.
In 1954, Jim joined in matrimony with Sophie Makris, initiating a devoted partnership that spanned an impressive 69 years. Serving as an Air Force Captain in Bermuda, he practiced dentistry and, while stationed there, welcomed their first child, Stephanie. Upon completing his required military service, he returned to Memphis, establishing a successful private dental practice and celebrating the birth of their son, George.
A devoted family man, Jim and Sophie were blessed with eight grandsons: Andrew Alissandratos (Amanda), Nicholas Alissandratos (Amy), Christopher Walker (Jessica), Benjamin Walker, Alexander Walker, Michael Sousoulas (Megan), Evan Sousoulas, and John Sousoulas, as well as three great-grandchildren.
Dr. James Sousoulas will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, profession, and community. In addition to his private practice, he taught at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry for several decades, as well as provided volunteer services to patients at the Memphis Mental Health Institute during the 1970s. Notably, at the time of his retirement at age 92, he held the distinction of being the oldest practicing dentist in the state of Tennessee.
There will be a celebration of life reception this Friday, November 3rd, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Chickasaw Country Club.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be directed to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, or the Pam and George Sousoulas Endowment Chair of Economics at Memphis University School.
Dr. James Sousoulas leaves behind a legacy steeped in love, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to both family and the dental profession, symbolizing a life of fortitude, determination, and the enduring bonds of family. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Jim's caregivers for their unwavering support during his final days.
What’s your fondest memory of Dr. James?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dr. James?
Share a story where Dr. James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dr. James you’ll never forget.
How did Dr. James make you smile?