George Abraham Chamoun

1947 - 2024

George Abraham Chamoun, 77, of Memphis, TN passed away Sunday, November 24, 2024 surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born on April 23, 1947, in Zahle, Lebanon, he was the son of Nazha (Gattas) and Abraham Chamoun.

At the age of 14, George immigrated from Lebanon to the United States. With only $300 sewn into the pocket of his pants, he traveled by ship for over a month before arriving at Ellis Island. From there, he settled in Clarksdale, MS living with his brother, Chafik and his family. He attended Clarksdale High School and later earned a degree in Economics and Accounting from the University of West Florida in Pensacola.

George spent his summers in Memphis, where he was warmly welcomed by his uncles, Fred Gattas and George Gattas Sr. He worked alongside his cousins at the family department store, Fred P. Gattas Company. The close-knit family bond George developed during his summers in Memphis, ultimately made him feel a deep connection to the city and lead him to feel like Memphis was home.

After college, George moved to Saudi Arabia where he became Head of Administration and Accounting for a prominent construction company responsible for major projects across the Middle East. During a trip to Lebanon in 1981, George met Claire, his wife of 42 years and the love of his life. They married and began their life together overseas, welcoming their daughter, Nancy, in Lebanon and their son, Nicholas, in Kuwait. Although George's career and travels took him far, he always considered the United States his true home. He returned with his family, settling in Memphis, where their youngest daughter, Natalie, was born.

George started an oriental rug business before spending 35 years at Goldsmiths/Macy's. His adventurous spirit led him to travel around the world three times. He was a passionate scuba diver, with the Red Sea holding a special place in his heart, and he was an avid tennis player before discovering his true passion-golf. George spent countless hours on the golf course at Memphis National, where he formed lifelong friendships, and equally treasured time spent with his poker and wine friends.

Above all, George was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His family was his greatest pride and joy, especially his grandson, George.

George was preceded in death by his parents, Nazha and Abraham Chamoun of Lebanon, and his brother, Chafik Chamoun of Clarksdale, MS. He is survived by his loving wife, Claire George Chamoun; his three children, Nancy Chamoun Miller (Thomas) of Memphis, Nicholas George Chamoun of Memphis, Natalie Joelle Chamoun (fiancé David Riggs) of Nashville, and his cherished grandson, George Thomas Miller. He also leaves behind his brother, Joseph Chamoun of Memphis; his sisters, Insaf and Issaf of Lebanon, numerous nieces, nephews, and countless cousins who loved him very much.

George's life was defined by resilience, generosity, and love. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Monday, December 2, 2024. There will be a visitation from 10:00-11:30 am with the funeral beginning at 11:30 am. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

The family asks in lieu of flowers; donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.