Mary Juanita Makris' Obituary
Mary Juanita Makris, age 80, passed away Sunday, April 7, 2024 at Baptist Reynolds Hospice House with her husband of 50 years, Steve Makris, by her side.
Raised in Brownsville, TN, she graduated from Haywood County High School in 1961. In 1976, with her husband and partner, Steve, they opened The Stage Stop, which would become a Memphis music staple. Nita Makris, affectionately known as the matriarch of The Stage Stop, dedicated over four decades to the people and the music within those walls. Her passion for music transcended mere business; it was a labor of love. The worn stage that hosted countless bands, the wooden dance floor that had to be waxed often and was perfect for a slow dance or for those who wanted a closer view, the beloved sound system the bands were always raving about, the carpeted walls that held years of memories, and the love you felt as soon as you walked in the door will always be remembered. Nita’s laughter was a treasure and her smile a beacon for both seasoned musicians and aspiring talents. She nurtured and cheered beginning musicians to gain confidence and never stop playing, while keeping some other seasoned musicians grounded with a little help from her water gun. She loved people, welcomed strangers, and always had time for a “Mama Nita” talk with her regulars. The Stage Stop was more than food, drinks, and music; it was about a connection with people and music, helping others on hard times, making memories and even meeting your future spouse. Nita was always willing to help those in need, hosting countless benefits for individuals, as well as, raising money every year for the charity that was near and dear to her heart, MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association). Nita treated everyone like family, and loved to see couples that met at The Stage Stop grow into families and come back to visit. She was also a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, always doting on her babies, giving advice, and making sure everyone was taken care of and loved. You never left a visit with her without hearing, “Where’s my hug?” With her husband by her side, with constant support until the end, she made her mark on Memphis music, and will always be remembered for her courage, strength, and unconditional love “at the top of the hill in Rockin’ Raleigh.”
She was preceded in death by her Mother, Loys Daniel, her son, Ricky Buchanan, and her grandson, Joshua Buchanan. She is survived by her husband, Steve Makris; two children, John (Kim) Buchanan of Bartlett, Nina (Alicia Jackson) Makris of Memphis; six grandchildren, Ashley (James) Shea, Shelbi (Vincent Holmes) Petersen, Bradley Buchanan, Brianna Buchanan, Beau Buchanan, Mason Jackson; great grandchildren, Jaxon Shea, Tatum Holmes, Maddex Brown.
Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 14, with visitation 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, April 12, both at Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery 5668 Poplar Avenue Memphis, TN 38119.
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