James Pappas Obituary
He was born on March 23, 1957, in Mobile, Alabama to the late Demetra James Pappas and Alice Burrough.
James was a man who loved music and loved life, and he especially loved playing the guitar. A gifted and passionate culinary artist, he built a distinguished career as an executive chef and ice sculpture designer. He was the proud owner of Dallas Ice Sculpture, where his creativity, craftsmanship, and dedication left a lasting impression on countless events and celebrations. His work reflected not only his talent, but also his joy in bringing beauty and happiness to others.
James is survived by his beloved wife, Amelia, with whom he shared 43 years of marriage, children; Amelia Pappas (husband Javier Albert), Alicia Ratliff (husband Alex Ratliff, IV), Angela Pappas (husband Horacio Mendez), and James Stephen Pappas Jr., grandchildren; Avery Pappas, Lucia Albert, Illiana Ratliff, Alayna Ratliff, Alexander Ratliff, Brandon Totubbi, Christopher Rodriguez, Alicia Pappas, Jazmin Garza, James Pappas, III, and Zinnia Ramirez, each of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his siblings Michael K. Pappas, Daniel Pappas, and Richard Pappas.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Charles Pappas.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2025, at Guerrero-Dean Funeral Home, 500 E. Main Street, Grand Prairie, Texas 75050 with a rosary at 11:00 a.m.
Burial will follow immediately at Mountain Creek Cemetery, 2099 Hardy Road, Grand Prairie, Texas 75051.
James will be remembered for his creativity, his generosity, his love of music, and the deep love he held for his family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he cherished.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Antonio Ramirez
December 31, 2025
God bless James and bless him for ever
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