Sophie Makris Sousoulas

1930 - 2024

Sophie Makris Sousoulas of Memphis, TN. passed away on July 1, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee.

Sophie was born in Memphis on May 17, 1930 to Michael and Mary Makris.

She graduated from the University of Memphis with degrees in Chemistry and Biology. At a time when the field of medical sciences was largely dominated by men, she was one of the few women in Tennessee to pursue a medical degree. She later became a lab assistant in Parasitology at the University of Tennessee department of Preventive Medicine. Sophie's consistent pursuit of knowledge and reverence for academia were character traits she carried with her throughout her life and were a defining part of her personality.

In 1954, Sophie married James Sousoulas (d. 2023), a graduate of U.T. Dental School and an officer in the U.S. Air Force. Sophie joined Jim at his station at Kindley Air Force base in Bermuda. Their first child, Stephanie, was born there. Upon their return to Memphis, their second child, George, was born.

Sophie was active in the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, where she became noted for her culinary accomplishments as well as philanthropy.

Sophie also became known throughout the city for a book she authored, The Caring Woman, whimsically illustrated by Pat Cloar, the wife of artist Carroll Cloar. She later contributed to the book Beyond Ellis Island, which depicted various family stories of the early Memphis Greek immigrants.

Passionate in many areas, she served on multiple boards including the Woodruff-Fontaine House, Laurel Meade neighborhood association, Salvation Army, and the City Beautiful Commission. It was her work on the Commission and with Judge Larry Potter that led to the establishment of the first Environmental Court in Memphis.

As an avid writer and political advocate, she wrote numerous Letters to the Editor which were published in the Commercial Appeal.

In addition to her children Sophie leaves behind eight grandsons whom she was absolutely devoted to. Andrew Alissandratos (Amanda), Nicholas Alissandratos (Amy), Chris Walker (Jessica), Ben Walker, Alex Walker, Michael Sousoulas (Megan), Evan Sousoulas, and John Sousoulas. She is also survived by five great-grandchildren.

Jim and Sophie forged a remarkable bond of togetherness throughout their marital longevity of 69 years. Her intelligence, kindness and deep love of knowledge will always be remembered.

Visitation will begin at 10 AM on Monday, July 8th, at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, with the service to follow immediately at 11:00

The family will host a Celebration of Life to honor Sophie the following day at Chickasaw Country Club at 4 PM on Tuesday, July 9th.

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.

The family also extends heartfelt thanks to Sophies caregivers and their unwavering support during her final days.