Search by Name

Search by Name

Byron Stratas Obituary

BYRON A.
STRATAS, MD., 51

TAMPA - Byron A. Stratas, MD, loving father, husband, and son who loved the Lord, passed away February 8, 2010 in Tampa, Fl.
He is survived by wife Caroline Barden Stratas, daughters Ashleyanne Rene and Grace Frances Stratas and son Hughes Byron Stratas, brother Nicholas A. Stratas. He is survived as well by his father Dr. Nicholas E. Stratas and mother Rene Stratas.
Byron was a graduate of the University of North Carolina undergraduate school and East Carolina Medical School. He did his ophthalmology training at the Medical University of South Carolina.
The memorial service is scheduled for 11 am Thursday morning February 11, 2010 at Saint Andrews Covenant Presbyterian Church, Wilmington, North Carolina.
In lieu of flowers donations to Make Way Partners (P.O. Box 26367 Birmingham, Al 35260) or a Trust Fund for the Stratas children.
Condolences may be sent to the family at
www.heathfuneralchapel.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Ledger on Feb. 10, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Byron Stratas

Not sure what to say?





Nick Stratas

December 15, 2021

What I say, gone to soon. Tom Dalton his echo memory. Too memories North Hills and I call remember one 1973, I could drive so we my 190 SL Byron and Andrew, my folks gone away. We had the best time! Your Monopoly is floor for hours and hours. He Ophthalmologist his God blessing a LASIK. Love the Byron .... I know see you in heaven!

May 13, 2013

A great brother, husband, father, physician and mainly, man of God.

Dionysios & Dottie Spathis

April 27, 2010

...I have this feeling there's one more star up in the sky tonight and even though its far away, its brightness and warmth still reach us here to make the night a little less dark...

A good and kind man loved by all who knew him...

Praying for Caroline, AshleyAnne, Grace & Hughes during this difficult time,
Dionysios & Dottie Spathis

Bryan J Conners SR and sons

February 25, 2010

Caroline and family-Byron was a very good friend and great dad. We grew up as friends in Raleigh and graduated together, Byron was blessed with his love of helping people. Byron will be missed, Please keep the faith, Byron's love will never leave us. GOD Bless

Annette Robertsen

February 24, 2010

Caroline and family-while I never met your husband, I heard wonderful things about him, all he did for his patients and what a genuine caring doctor he was. He performed eye surgery on a dear friend of mine who had such apprehension beforehand. Your husband alleviated her fears immediately and the surgery was successful. While there are no explanations for sudden loss, it is only through faith and God's healing ways can we deal with the magnitude of such grief.
My hope is that you will reach out to all who care, let them be the hand you need to hold to help guide you on your journey, the ear to listen to your sorrows and the heart to help the healing process of yours. May you feel God's presence in your darkest days and be the light that guides you on your journey through the maze of "whys". May He be the strength you need to help you through the process of grieving. I wish you peace and all the love you and your children obviously deserve.
God Bless you

Ellen Williams

February 21, 2010

Dearest Caroline, I am one of the many who was blessed to be a patient of Dr. Stratas. I always looked forward to my appointments (for years!) because he always found some way to share his joy in the Lord. I KNOW he is with Him now. Although I was not at the service, I have heard that your tribute to him was beautiful and inspiring, a testimony to your faith. May God comfort you in this great loss.

Jesse and Carolyn Robertson

February 19, 2010

I first met Caroline at my mother's, Peg Tidler, home giving her physical therapy. Later my husband, Jesse, and I met Byron. Both Caroline and Byron were so friendly and kind to us. We were so sorry to hear the the family had moved away and now we are devastated to learn that Byron has passed away. Thank you, Caroline, for helping my mother. We will keep you and your children in our prayers.

Stedman Stevens

February 16, 2010

Dear Caroline and Family,

We are sorry for the tremendous loss you are living through and the helpless feeling grief casts upon you. All of our thoughts, wishes and prayers are with you.

Blair, Caroline, Wynne & Stedman Stevens

Trina and Roger Ryan

February 16, 2010

I was a patient of Dr. Stratas. I was so taken by him that I asked my mother to see him when she moved here in October. Upon finding out that he had moved to Florida we were still going to contact him. That is how much I thought of him.

We are saddened by the news and we want you to know that he will be dearly missed.

Sandra Allen-Paul

February 16, 2010

Dear Caroline,
No words can help us understand this loss. With faith and family held close, you will be at peace. Love to you and your children.

Karen Egerton

February 16, 2010

Caroline and family, Stuart and I were very moved by the memorial service for Byron. We have always loved Byron and all of you. His loss would be unbearable but for God's grace. Know you are in our prayers. Much love.

February 16, 2010

I am Dr. S.A. Adler, an Optometrist who knew and referred patients to Dr. Stratas. My wife and I were shocked to hear of his passing. He was a wonderful man and an outstanding surgeon. He will be missed my myself and all other Docs who refer to him. Condolences to his family and St. Lukes for a missing member of the St. Lukes family.
Dr. S.A. Adler

Jean Luther

February 16, 2010

Dear Caroline and Family, My husband, daughter and I were patients of Dr Stratus since the early 90's. He was a very special, exhuberant and loving doctor. He was always interested in us and willing to refer us to a specialist when he saw the need. We will always remember him and we pray for God's peace and strength through this trying time.

Myra Burtt

February 16, 2010

Words can't begin to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Your family has always been so special to me. I always enjoyed seeing you all at church. What a wonderful example you were as you shared God's love with everybody. Byron did my lassik surgery & I felt like I was in the best of hands. I only wish he was here to do my future surgery. The memorial service was a beautiful tribute to Byron. Our church had never seated over 1000 people for a service before. Let us know if you need anything. You all are loved. My love to you all. Myra Burtt SACPC Wilmington

Angela Armke

February 15, 2010

To the family of a wonderful doctor. My husband and I were both patients of Dr. Stratas. We are so sorry for your loss and ours. He was one of the BEST! Our prayers are with you all.
Ken and Angela Armke
Wilmington, NC 28403

Mavis P. Bland

February 15, 2010

February 15, 2010

I was a surgery patient of Dr. Stratas on July 13th & 27th. 2009 just prior to his relocation to Tampa Fl and have been so blessed by the short time I knew him.I send my thoughts and prayers to you Caroline and the entire family and would like to share a scripture which has given me great strength as I became a widow suddenly which is Jeremiah 29:11-For I know the plans I have for you, plans not to harm you but to give you a hope and a future.
Praying that Gods grace and strength sustain you and the family with each new day.

Jennifer Holland-Murphy

February 14, 2010

Spent time with Caroline and Byron as a Young Life leader long ago and later had vision corrected with Byron... can't express how sad I am for your family's loss... Praying that peace will soon come for you all.

Rev. Karl Zorowski

February 13, 2010

I played in a woodwind quintet with Byron at Carroll. I remember him and your family well. May God grant you peace during the days and months ahead.

February 13, 2010

Caroline,
Praying for you and your children that your grief is lightened by His love, and that you feel His comfort always. I will always remember you and Byron when you were involved in Young Life, and what an inspriation you were to me and many others how effortlessly you lived in God's grace and love. May peace be restored soon to your heart and the hearts of your children.
Deepest Sympathy,
Stephanie Roberts Durbin

February 13, 2010

Our deepest sympathy to family in your loss. He was a miracle MD for us--cataract and lazik surgery--really trusted him--MD's dont get any better!
Dick and Darlyne Johnston

anita theodore

February 11, 2010

I was one of Dr Stratas' first patients in Wilmington. He saved my eyesight in 1990 when he performed laser surgery on my eyes when I was pregnant. I loved him dearly, mourned the loss of Luke and celebrated with the birth of each child. I was deeply saddened to find out this news. Ironically, I am vacationing in Florida and got a phone call yesterday to tell me the sad news. My Momma will be in Heaven to greet this fine man. See you soon, Dr. Stratas.

February 11, 2010

By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us to give light to those who sit in darkness...to guide our feet into the way of peace. Luke 1:78-79
God's blessings and our love.
Nanette and Zane Walsh

Mark Leary

February 11, 2010

We are certainly all better people by having Byron present in our lives and the memorial service today was a wonderful testament to a wonderful man and the love for our lord, his family and his friends. I pray for strength, comfort and peace for you all.

Whitney Blair Custom Homes

February 11, 2010

Please accept our deepest sympathies at this incredibly difficult time.

Naomi Hazlett

February 11, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you. I was a patient of Dr. Stratus for many years and thought highly of him. He always encourged me with his smile and upbeat attitude. I am so sorry for your loss.

Ashley Elmore Livingston

February 11, 2010

Nothing seems like the right thing to say in this situation, but please know that our thought and prayers are with you. We all love you very much and are here if you need anything, at all.

Sincerely,
Ashley and Elliott

Chris Carter

February 11, 2010

One of the greatest experiences of my youth was spending a day out on the boat with Byron and Caroline. We went fishing for King Mackerel and came in with quite a haul. "..teach a man to fish.." I guess. Byron and Caroline were our Young Life counselors and he even picked me up for Young Life one time and took me by the Hospital and showed me where he did his work. His practice served my Grandmother who passed this year and had cataracts and glaucoma. I really regret having perfect vision right now because, I would have gotten to see him more often. I've never been out fishing like that before or since. I had that opportunity because he saw a kid that could use a connection with an adult that was spiritually grounded, who had a laudible work ethic and such a great capacity for outreach and compassion. I can't imagine the sense of loss that you all feel. I'm glad that I've had these opportunities and over the course of your lives I hope you're all able to recall the blessings that will remain with you always.

Erin and Leo Dusard

February 11, 2010

Physician, friend, minister to so many...a loss beyond words

Erin

February 11, 2010

How devastating this is to so many of us to lose Dr. Stratus...he was much to many; my doctor, my friend, and a strong Christian advocate of ministries. Love and prayers are with you always.

February 11, 2010

Our family and church will be praying for you and yours. Please don't hesitate to call us if you need prayer or anything. We love you much! Antonio, Angel & Sterling Wellington (Wilmington, NC)

Ignacio and Diane Ferras

February 11, 2010

Carolyn and children, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you constantly. Know that we pray our Heavenly Father will lift you up, comfort, and sustain you. Trust that He will. We will miss Byron.

February 11, 2010

Thinking of you and holding your family close.

Melanie

Judy Getz Buzzell

February 11, 2010

To Byron's family, you are all in my prayers. Byron was a wonderful physician and minister. I knew of him when we both attended St. Andrews and know he was admired by many for his faith in his Lord and the good works he did. May God hold you all in the palm of his hand at this sad time.

Reverend Mr. Vic Gournas

February 11, 2010

Byron, you will always be dear to me. A beautiful person and friend who always shared a smile. I will keep you close to my heart and in my prayers. I will continue to offer up prayers for Caroline and the family. I will miss you Byron.

Jennifer Lancaster

February 11, 2010

Carolina, God Bless you and your family during this difficult time. Although the years have separated our families, I recall the fond memories of sharing soccer with your family when our girls played together years ago. I am so sorry for your loss.

Love and prayers to you and your family,
Jennifer, Jamie and Christian Lancaster

Peggy Viser

February 11, 2010

Oh dear Caroline and kids, there are no words... My heart breaks for you and you are in my prayers that God's love and comfort will surround you and sustain you.

Keith Walter

February 11, 2010

To Caroline, AA, Grace and Hughes...I'm so sorry and devastated for your loss. You have my deepest sympathies and I so wish I could give you a big hug right now. Byron was my greatest friend for the last 19 years, he has helped shape me into the man, father, and physician that I am today. Many thanks to him for his support and guidance through all these years.

Time will heal us all and soon we will see him again. Keep the faith, hold on to hope, love all you can...

Keith

Betty Wallace Priest

February 11, 2010

I was a patient of Dr. Stratus. My deepest condolences are with his family.His thoughtfulness will be a pleasant memory.

Jude and Mary Jean Uhl

February 10, 2010

Our thoughts are with all the family at this sad time.

Cecile Crouch

February 10, 2010

My husband was a patient of Dr. Statas and also attended Bible Study with him. His death is a personal loss for all who knew him.

Wendy Heagey

February 10, 2010

Caroline, you are constantly in our prayers. Byron was such a wonderful man and we cherish the short time we had to get to know him. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you need anything.

February 10, 2010

May the Peace of God which surpasses all of our understanding be with you now and always.

Mike Preib and Family

Lura Martin

February 10, 2010

Dear Carolyn and Em and Glen,

Although this seems like an impossibly impersonal way to express my condolences, I want you to know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this incredibly sad time.

My heart goes out to you today and in the days ahead. I pray that your hearts will soon be filled with wonderful memories of a life well lived.

February 10, 2010

I wish you all God's peace and comfort in this most difficult time. May you feel God's Holy Presence with you now and always. Our hearts and prayers go out to all the family.
Mary Walters
Lakeland, FL

February 10, 2010

Caroline,
Since you know of my deep affection for Byron you will know how deeply I share in your loss. Sometime God gives us burden that seem too much to bear but He promises to be there with us to comfort and love us. That is my prayer for you and the family. Call me if you need anything.
With Deepest Sympathy ---Jim Jones

Mallory Leimone

February 10, 2010

Dr. Stratas was my doctor for many years. He was smart, always busy, caring, humorous, and hung the artwork of his children at work for all to admire. I admired him and trusted him, and will miss him.

February 10, 2010

Dear Caroline,
We are very saddened to hear about your loss. Please know that we are keeping you and the children in our prayers and close to our hearts. We have fond memories of you and Byron- even before you had your first baby! What loving people you are. We love you.
Julie Capell Blackburn & Lisa Capell Blackmon

Thomas Williams

February 10, 2010

To The Family,
You don't know me but I had been a patient of Byrons for many years. In those 15 years Byron did many things to enable me see better. I admired him as a doctor and a friend because he would tell me the truth about my eyes (what he could or could not do) to fix them. Bryon was strong in his belief in God and he would be the first to tell you that his gift as a Doctor was given to him by the Lord. One of the most important gifts given to Byron (Little Guy) as I called him were his family. He loved all of you dearly and that loved showed when you walked into any of the "Prep" rooms in the building he worked in. Every room had drawings that the children did when they were younger and he did like so much to bragg about them. Another thing I liked about him was that he was willing to take time off from work to help others in other countries who couldn,t afford medical treatment. Children, you should be very proud of your father he as he was very proud of you. Although he was on this earth for a very short time he will always be remembered for the thing God allowed him to do.

Rev. Thomas E. Williams

Fil & Lucie Anderson

February 10, 2010

Caroline,
We're holding you and your precious children in our prayers, trusting that God who's always close to the brokenhearted, will comfort you in your sadness and grief.

Ron and Gail Herring

February 10, 2010

Caroline, We are so sorry for your loss. Your entire family is in our prayers. May God's Holy Spirit bring you comfort at this difficult time.

Paul Beall

February 10, 2010

Peace Dr. Stratas.

February 10, 2010

Caroline and Children, Bardens and Extended Family, My heart goes out to all of you during this time. I was so saddened to hear about Byron. The love that has always defined your family will certainly be a support to you right now, but know that you have old friends who are sending much love, too, and sending many prayers for your comfort and strength. Love, Jennie (Clarke) and Michael Keleher

February 10, 2010

Such a loss of a wonderful person, great compassionate doctor that devoted so much time to give sight.A lot of times for free.I couldn't wait for him to come back to Wilmington. Angie and I talked of him often. Prayers for Carolina & Family. Gail Bailey

Sonya Beacham

February 10, 2010

Caroline,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your children. You are and will remain in my prayers.

February 10, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this very difficult time.

Drs and Staff
Duplin Eye Associates

Melinda Clarke Thompson

February 10, 2010

Caroline and Barden family,
Your entire family has been an inspiration to me all my life through your faith and selfless spirits.- and I am only one! May the prayers of the countless people your ministries have touched around the world lift you up during this time of grief and loss. I love you all.

Sandra Rhodes

February 10, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. We've truly lost a very gifted and compassionate doctor as well as a sincere friend. May he rest in peace.

Benjamin & Karel Garside

February 10, 2010

Caroline & Family: We are so saddened to hear of Byron's passing. Know that we are in constant prayer for all of you, trusting God to sustain you. "Though the mountains be shaken, though the hills be removed; yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken... declares the Lord who has compassion on you." Isaiah 54:10

February 10, 2010

Caroline, I am so very sorry to hear of this. You and your family will be in my prayers. Leslie Gebert (Naples, FL)

February 10, 2010

Dear Caroline and family,

We received word of Byron's passing through Pastor McCabe's call since we are vacationing in Lake Lure N.C. We were deeply saddened for your sudden loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your entire family during this most difficult time. God is sufficient and may you feel his love and grace in a special way in the days ahead.

Our Love,
Jim and Patti Keene

Bob Collins

February 10, 2010

Byron's departure is a tremendous loss to our community and to all of us who knew him personally. Caroline - my heart is torn for you and the kids. We pray that God will comfort you and your family. He promises that we will understand someday.

February 10, 2010

Caroline, I'm very sorry to hear this news. My most heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Byron was very helpful to me in my budding career.

Matthew Partrick

Melissa Martin

February 10, 2010

Caroline - this seems so impersonal but know that our family is praying for each of you. We love you and your amazing family. Your strength and faith are an inspiration. Praying for God's peace to surround and uplift you as you grief. Much love!

ginny simmons

February 10, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Anne Turlington

February 10, 2010

Caroline, Ashleyanne, Grace, and Hughes our prayers and love are with you.I want to hug each of you. Byron brought smiles to each one of us. I am so sad that I will be out of town Thursday for service. My thoughts and prayers will be with you.
God Bless,
Anne,Les, Louise and Chandler

Andy & Nancy Anderson

February 10, 2010

Caroline,
We are praying for you.

Laura and Randy Sheets

February 10, 2010

We only had Byron for such a short time but his impact on us in Tampa was huge! His smile, kindness and devotion for the Lord and his family will be Byron's lasting legacy. Our prayers are with you.

Teresa Holbrook

February 10, 2010

Caroline,children, Glen,Em,We are interceding for all of you in prayer.You all our dear to our hearts. We love you. Love Lamar and Teresa Holbrook

Kimberly Lea

February 10, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Easter Tootoo Limback

February 10, 2010

We were so sorry to hear about the news of Byron's passing. He was very special to many people all over the world and very dear to me as he performed my corneal transplant in 1995. It was nerve wrecking for me but, Byron told me he prayed over the procedure and God would be guiding his hands. All my fears and doubts immediately went away. I've since moved away but, over the years, have seen eye specialist all over the country for maintenance care and have been told how great a job Byron did .. its been 15 yrs and I'm still doing great! Thanks to Byron! Our warmest thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and children and to the entire Stratas Family. May God bless and keep you during this difficult time.

With Warmest Regards,
Easter Tootoo Limback

Debi Hammonds

February 10, 2010

Dr. Stratas was a wonderful person-very caring and always willing to share his love of the Lord. He will be truly missed by all that had the pleasure to know him.

Elizabeth Evans Laymon

February 10, 2010

Our world is a much darker place without Byron. Dear family, know that you are loved and that our Heavenly Father is holding you close. You are in our hearts and prayers.

Cheryl and Alan Shaffer

February 10, 2010

Carolyn, children, Em and Glen our hearts are hurting for you and we have not stopped praying. You are all loved deeply.We love you!!!

February 10, 2010

Our familys thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time of need. Jim Fig... and family

Showing 1 - 74 of 74 results

Make a Donation
in Byron Stratas's name

Memorial Events
for Byron Stratas

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Byron's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Byron Stratas's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more