Kosta N. Taras' Obituary
Kosta N. Taras, Beloved Family Man, Passes Away in Memphis, Tenn.
Beloved by all who knew him, Kosta N. Taras peacefully passed away on Feb. 13, 2022. He was 90.
Born Sept. 23, 1931, he was raised by his father Nick K. Taras in the Greek Orthodox faith. Those who had the honor to know him will remember him for his immeasurable devotion to Orthodox Christianity, his quick-witted charm, and for providing extreme care to anyone in need of loving-kindness. He was a devoted husband, an adoring father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, νονός, and among humanity’s most original and creative souls.
He possessed a comprehensive knowledge of Orthodoxy and realms of Christianity beyond. He read the Bible every day. Known as Mr. Kosta to many in the congregation, he was a dedicated member of Memphis’ Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church where he served in the choir and the altar. He also would attend Holy Rosary Catholic Church. During his time at Trezevant Manor, he would often par-ticipate in the weekly worship service.
Growing up in Memphis, he was raised to be a proud Greek American. He attended Christian Brothers and served in the Air Force. He maintained a tireless work ethic and zeal for serving the Memphis community. His career included working at Memphis’ iconic restaurant Jim’s Place, opening Kosta’s Pet Shop, and working as a Care Partner at Baptist Hospital.
He enjoyed painting and ceramics with works distributed throughout the local Greek community and beyond. At Trezevant Manor, he was an active resident and enjoyed several activities including exercise class, movies, arts and crafts, having meaningful conversations with friends, and the occasional poker game.
He is survived by his wife Loretta Taras of 67 years, his son Nick Taras (Donna Taras) of Nashville, Tenn., his daughter Margaret Totin (Pete Totin) of Greenville, S.C., five grandchildren Ria Totin of Greenville, S.C, Christopher Totin (Tania Totin) of Denver, Co., Alexis Totin of Nashville, Tenn., Constance Kawandyar (Zarif Kawandyar) of Chicago, Ill., Nicholas Taras of Nashville, Tenn., and three great-grandchildren, Valyn, Vera, and Jax.
Services will be held at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (573 N Highland St., Memphis, TN 38122) on Saturday, Feb. 19. Visitation is noon-1pm with a funeral to follow.
The family asks in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Memphis’ Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, Trezevant Manor, and Holy Rosary Catholic Church.
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