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Peter Lecouras Obituary
He was born July 20, 1943 in Stamford, Connecticut, to Catherine and Charles Lecouras.
He is survived by Linda Hollandsworth, his wife; two children, Tara L. Messervy of Cumming, Ga., and Alexis P. Lecouras of Severna Park, Md.; brothers, Spyros Lecouras of Beacon Falls, Conn., and George Lecouras of Sebastian, Fla.; sister, Margaret Fornaciari of Stamford, Conn.; and two grandchildren.
Mr. Lecouras grew up in Stamford, Conn., and ventured to South Carolina to see if everything he'd heard about the region was true. He received a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts degree in English from the University of South Carolina. After college graduation, he worked for 11 years in S.C. state government, working first as a regional planner and educational representative for the South Carolina Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse and then serving as Executive Director of the Horry County Commission.
He began teaching fulltime in the English department at the USC-Coastal Carolina College in 1985. In addition to teaching, he worked as a Grants Development Coordinator from 1988 to 1994. Working fulltime, he began doctoral work at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1992 where he was awarded his Doctor of Philosophy in English with concentrations in British Romanticism and Literary Theory in May of 1996.
Mr. Lecouras was promoted to the rank of full Professor in 2008. During his 24 years at Coastal Carolina University, he published in scholarly peer-reviewed journals on William Wordsworth, W. B. Yeats, Walker Percy, Ernest Hemingway, and Robert Lowell. His first book of fiction was published in September, 2009, Requiem for a Good Soldier and Other Stories.
He served as a member of the board of trustees for the Burroughs-Chapin Art Museum and the Waccamaw Center for Mental Health. He was a member of the St. John Greek Orthodox Church in Myrtle Beach.
Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, November 12, 2009 in St. John Greek Orthodox Church. Burial will follow in Ocean Woods Cemetery.
The family will receive friends at McMillan-Small Funeral Home, from 5 until 7 p.m., Wednesday, November 11, 2009, with services of Trisagion beginning 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Julie Finlayson's Waccamaw Animal Rescue Mission (WARM), P. O. Box 1764, Conway, SC, 29528; the Burroughs-Chapin Art Museum in Myrtle Beach; or the St. John Greek Orthodox Church in Myrtle Beach.
An online guest book is available a www.msfh.net and at TheSunNews.com.
McMillan Small Funeral Home of Myrtle Beach is serving the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Peter Lecouras
Tiffany Nixon
June 18, 2010
As I'm sure many other CCU English majors would agree, Pete was not just our teacher, he was our friend. As I read the entries in the guest book, I see that Pete made a difference not only in my life, but in the lives of many, many others. God bless you, Pete. Heaven has gained another angel.
Elizabeth Brehm Stronkowsky
March 29, 2010
I was at Ocean Woods last week when my Mom passed and just happend to see his name. He was one of my very favorite professors and inspired me to read. What a loss for you and all who knew him, but a gain for Heaven!
February 13, 2010
Well...here it is three months later, but I was just told today that my old friend Peter had died. We knew each other during the 70's and 80's, as colleagues and friends. Pete was a challenging man, both intellectually and as a friend. He was unfailingly honest and direct....and as others have noted, he always listened and was "present" at all times. I just moved back to the beach and one of the things I most looked forward to was reconnecting with my old friend. God speed, old friend!
Andrea Labouchere
November 21, 2009
My heart and love go out to Peter's daughter Tara. I know what a battle she has been through and how much she depended on her dad. She will always have his memories to give her strength through these tough times. - Andrea & Mark Labouchere (Phoenix, AZ)
Bud Boyne
November 16, 2009
I was very saddened to hear of Pete's passing. Pete was a fine gentleman and an all around good guy. My thoughts and prayers are w/ his family.
Lauren Adams
November 16, 2009
Dr. Lecouras believed in me when I could not. For that, and so much more, I am forever grateful to this great man.
I will miss you but I will never let you down Dr. Lecouras. Eternal peace be with you.
Lara Keough
November 14, 2009
Dr. Lecouras will be missed. He was not keen on the nonsense, like tardiness and failure to study, but he was excellent at making poetry relevant to the lives of his students. Linda, my deepest sympathies for your and your family's loss.
Jozanne Rigoli
November 14, 2009
Dr. Hollandsworth and Family,
Intense, challenging and charismatic, Dr. Lecouras will live on for many of his students as a man that gave them access to the world of literature. Dr. Lecouras was simply brilliant when he read from the great works...just amazing. The world has lost a great scholar and gentleman. I am so sorry for your loss.
Ashley Salsberry
November 14, 2009
I am saddened to hear about Dr. Lecouras and he will be greatly missed!! Such a good friend and professor will never be forgotten!!
Carlton Bridges
November 12, 2009
Peter was a fairly new professor when I met him. He got down on our level as students and challenged us to follow him onwards and upwards. I got into an argument with him in class one day about the varying degrees of sin and actually held him at bay. He was intrigued by this bold sophomore and we began to seek each other out. He introduced me to Nietzsche and I schooled him on the subtle lessons on the duality of man behind Prince's bawdiness via bootleg cassettes. He gave me some of the best advice on how to survive college (I was an impoverished kid with three jobs trying to make it on grit alone). Thanks for everything Dr. Lecouras, you did your job many times over. I wish I had come back to thank you properly or been aware of your illness. I actually stumbled across this announcement by chance (or was it merely chance). Hey, I made it through this whole thing without using too many semicolons-your most oft utilized criticism of me. I'm still working on the parenthesis thing.
Denise K. James
November 12, 2009
Dr. Lecouras was one of my favorite professor friends that I met in my undergraduate days. When we first met in 1999 during my sophomore year, I was intimidated by his British Lit survey course! Then I came to love his teaching. I was fortunate enough to take three classes with him during my years at Coastal Carolina, and more importantly, form a friendship with a wonderful scholar, mentor and friend. I am grateful to have shared many memories with him--some hilarious, some inspiring. I know his work will live on through his students and others who admired him. Rest in Peace, Dr. Peter Lecouras. You will not be forgotten.
Vicky Rabon
November 12, 2009
Linda: My thought and prayers are with you and your family during this most difficult time. God will bring you comfort during this time. God bless all of you.
Sophia Revelotis
November 11, 2009
Peter and I were related, first-cousins, I being the oldest and Peter being next. He was raised in Connecticut and I in Massachusetts. There were summer visits and we bonded. The years passed and we occasionally saw one another but always felt that bond. It is with great sadness to know that Peter has passed away -- a little hard to believe. May he rest in peace. With Love, Cousin Sophia Revelotis
Neal and Sandra Causey
November 11, 2009
We are so saddened by the loss of a great scholar, mentor, and friend. He left an indelible impression on us both personally and academically. Peace be with you, Dr. Lecouras, and to your family, who will be in our thoughts and prayers.
November 11, 2009
Expressing my deepest sympathy to Linda & Peters children,you all brought him alot of joy. I will miss having Peter as a friend and client,as I cut his hair over 20 years. We had some good conversation and laughs.God Bless!
Nicole Service, Class of 2003
November 11, 2009
Dr. Lecouras was a great professor, and even though his theory class was tough, my friends and I always looked forward to it. One time, Dr. Lecouras switched the due date of a paper so none of us would have to miss "24." Another time, I could not stop laughing, and Dr. Lecouras stopped class to ask me if I was high! I, along with my friends B-dawg and Ellen, learned so much from him. My prayers to your family. He will be missed. Whenever I think of Yeats, Lukacs, and lunatics in the attic in Victorian literature, I will think of Plecouras!
Tony & Medissa Cox
November 11, 2009
Dear Linda & family, We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts & prayers. We pray for peace and comfort during this most difficult time. The hurt will get easier over time, just rely on God & your family & friends. Please if we can help you or do anything for you, just let us know. Our deepest sympathy-your friends & neighbors, Tony, Medissa, Anna Brice, Cade & Cowen
Charlotte Roberts
November 11, 2009
Dr. Lecouras was my Professor for a couple months before he had to leave to for Charleston. I will always remember him as an excellent Professor who helped me make the decision that being an English major was the best choice for me. He will always be in my memories for encouraging me to be the absolute best I could be as a student. My best to him always, as a student of English and of life. He will be missed.
Wink & Sallye Prince
November 11, 2009
Linda,
Sallye and I were saddened to learn of Peter's passing. You know how special he was within our circle of friends. He struggled a long time and now he is free. He will live on through his students and readers.
Love,
Wink & Sallye
November 11, 2009
I only met Peter 1 time while Tara was in the hospital I was really inpresed with him very nice and warm man good heart he will be sadly missed I will gladly donate to WARM in his name any animal lover has a place in my heart God bless you and your family
Brenda & Steve Benoist
November 11, 2009
I only met Peter 1 time while Tara was in the hospital I was really inpresed with him very nice and warm man good heart he will be sadly missed I will gladly donate to WARM in his name any animal lover has a place in my heart God bless you and your family
Brenda Benoist
November 11, 2009
I only met Peter 1 time 2 years ago when Tara my beautiful sister in law had surgery I was very impressed with him very smart and nice man he will be missed Tara love you my prayers are with you and you family I will make a donation to the animal rescue in your fathers name
Stella Cooper
November 11, 2009
Linda: please know that you are in our thoughts here at CCU; it was my privilege to say that I knew Peter; we would often talk in the parking lot and "compare notes" on the state of the campus. He will be missed by all....God bless you!
Lisa Dickinson
November 10, 2009
Dr. Lecouras was a gifted and knowledgeable teacher who helped steer me in the right direction during my first year of college as an English major. I will never forget him - My prayers are with the family during this time.
November 10, 2009
Linda,
You meet certain people in your lifetime that really leave a lasting impression on your life and that you feel connected to, Pete was one of those people for me. I loved our conversations by the mailbox or when I would come over for a glass of wine and conversation with you and him. I always felt that he truly listened and that is rare. I will truly miss him, but I know that he lived his life like he wanted-he loved you so much and I know that it will be one of the most difficult times in your life to not have him with you everyday. I promise to be there for you if you need to talk about Pete or whatever, please know that! Eric, Kaitlyn and I will be thinking of you. Your neighbor and friend,
Janet Cox-Petersen
Jonathan White
November 10, 2009
Dr. Lecouras was not simply an accomplished man and dedicated civil servant, he was also an inspiring mentor and friend. Though the only class I was able to take from him was a summer course on British literature, he became a mentor to me throughout my time at Coastal and beyond. He took a particular interest in his students, making time for those within the discipline and without. His was a great heart, open to all of us, and a great mind, concerned with justice, truth, and other noble pursuits. Dr. Lecouras, you are already missed.
AHEPA Chapter 498
November 10, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss, and the loss of our Brother Ahepan. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
Jennifer Hess
November 10, 2009
Dr. Lecouras- was the most influential professor and man that I have ever met. He is the reason that I love British literature and wanted to become a professor of English. My prayers go out to Linda and his family.
Dr. Lecouras-Please look down upon us everyday and know you will never be forgotten! I know you can see that I finally entered into an M.A.-English program after you told me not to go the M.A.T. route and I didi anyways:) You are an inspiration!
Carrie (Cerny) Shearin
November 10, 2009
Linda,
Both you and Dr. Lecouras are among my favorite professors at CCU. This is undoubtedly a tough time and you are in my thoughts and prayers.
-Carrie (Cerny) Shearin
Class of '97
November 10, 2009
Peter, only met you once, we admired you greatly as you were greatly impressed with Jeans chocolate cake. We will gladly donate to your pet loves the WARM animal mission in your name. Regrets.
Ted & Jean Messervy
Lisa Schafer
November 10, 2009
Dear Linda,
I can't tell you how sorry I am to hear about Peter. I know he had struggled for a while, but you can rest now knowing he is no longer in pain. May you find peace in the coming days. Know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Love you.
Terry Chandler
November 10, 2009
I always enjoyed our talks about politics and the world affairs. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Linda and the family.
He has no more pain or suffering. I know that he is in God's hands. God bless and if you need anything please let me know.
Pat Mosca Lecouras
November 10, 2009
I was saddened to hear of Peter's passing. I hope that happy memories and the love of those around you will be a source of solace and consolation during these difficult times.
Cynthia Powell
November 10, 2009
Dear Linda,
It was an honor to get to know Peter. He was forever upbeat and always had something witty to say; I thoroughly enjoyed being around him.
Take care of yourself and please know my best wishes go to you during this difficult time.
David Ridenour
November 10, 2009
Dr. Lecouras, I have nothing but fond memories and a special place in my heart for you and the wealth of knowledge that you taught me in British Literature. The English Department at Coastal Carolina University lost a true scholar and a true gentleman!
THE STAFF AT MEDPLUS
November 10, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Marcie Willis
November 10, 2009
I spent 2 years as a student of Dr. Lecouras's, and will always consider myself lucky to have had that opportunity. He was great man and a great professor and he will definitely be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you Dr. Hollandsworth.
November 10, 2009
Linda,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family at this time. Peter was a very special person and I enjoyed working with him at Coastal. There is no doubt that he is in a special place now and he will be your guardian angel forever. God bless and know that many people are thinking of you at this time. Love and special thoughts,
Lindy Smith
Jerry Starling
November 10, 2009
The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief.
JoAnna Dalton
November 10, 2009
Thank you, Dr. Lecouras, for encouraging and challenging an insecure, nontraditional student. You helped me believe in myself again. And, as you promised, you taught me not only how to read and understand great works of literature, but also how to read and understand the world. Heaven's gain is our loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Dr. Hollandsworth.
Jon and Becky Wilhoit
November 10, 2009
Dr. Lecouras is quoted quite often at our house. It was with great sadness and heavy hearts that we heard of his passing. He had a youthful sort of curiosity that was always so fun to be around. But at the same time, he never faltered in his beliefs, and nothing ever shook him. He blessed each student he taught, whether through his graceful encouragements or his solid arguments. Literature served as a muse for him, and he imparted that same appreciation to his students. He will be greatly missed, but he will continue to live on in the memories and stories of the students he taught. God bless his lovely wife and his family during this difficult time.
Ricky Young
November 10, 2009
Linda, You are in lauren and my thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry for your loss.
Marios Katsioloudes
November 10, 2009
May peace be upon you Peter. I haven't seen you in so many years, but my thoughts, prayers and wishes have and will always be with you and your loved ones. I cherish the years we have been colleagues at Coastal.
Marios I. Katsioloudes
April Burton
November 10, 2009
I have wonderful memories from classes with Prof. Lecouras. I hate to hear that he is gone. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Tonya Singleton
November 10, 2009
I had the opportunity to take several classes with Dr. Lecouras and I thought a lot of him. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jessica Edwards
November 10, 2009
A professor, scholar and mentor. Dr. Lecouras will be greatly missed and remember as one of Coastal Carolina University's finest professors. He was such an encouraging and challenging professor that has left a great legacy in his wake. He taught how to read and interpret many of the world's great pieces of fiction and poetry, but most of all how to speak up in class.
May God bless and comfort his family during this time.
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