Chris Michael Kontos

Chris Michael Kontos, cherished by his family and community, fell asleep in the Lord on Sunday, November 30, 2025. He passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on September 6, 1927, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Julia and Mike Kontos of Tripoli, Greece, Chris dedicated his life to faith, family, and music. He graduated from Jesuit High School in 1944, earned his undergraduate degree from LSU, and went on to complete a master's degree in music at Loyola University. He also served in the Louisiana National Guard.

A gifted musician, Chris was a master of any instrument he picked up and shared his talents generously. He spent his entire career as a band director, teaching thousands of students the art of music and leading the band at Eleanor McMain High School for many years. Although his concerts consistently amazed audiences with his band's music proficiency, Chris was more than a teacher. He served as a mentor, leading many of his former students to stay in touch with him throughout his long life. He also served for many years as choir director at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, enriching the church he loved. Alongside his music, his quick wit and love of laughter brought joy to everyone around him.

On August 28, 1960, Chris married the love of his life, the late Mary Vlahos of Biloxi, Mississippi, and together they raised their three children. He is also preceded in death by his sister Georgette Zarafonetis and survived by his children Joanne Kontos Byrne (Kevin Byrne), Katherine Kontos Tadros, and Michael Kontos (Deirdre Ryan); his grandchildren Christopher Byrne (Courtney Raaz, fiancé), Katie Byrne Brooks (Keagan Brooks), Nicholas Tadros (Sarah Tadros), Alexia Tadros, and Chris Tadros; and his great-grandchildren Charlotte Brooks and Eleni Tadros. His legacy of love, faith, humor, and music lives on in each of them.

May his memory be eternal.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral Archives Fund.