Constance Pappas Cotros

Constance (“Connie”) Pappas Cotros, age 85, passed away unexpectedly on January 1, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee. Though her passing came as a surprise, Connie lived a full and faithful life until the very end where she stepped into eternity with her Savior, Jesus Christ.

Connie was born on March 8, 1940, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Pete and Koula Pappas. She grew up in Memphis, where her strong Greek heritage, faith, and family values shaped the woman she would become. From an early age, she carried herself with grace, devotion, and a strong sense of responsibility to those she loved.

On June 10, 1962, Connie married the love of her life, Charles Harry Cotros, in Memphis. Their marriage, spanning more than six decades, was defined by faith and true partnership. As Charles devoted much of his life to leading Sysco Food Service, Connie faithfully supported both him and the company through her generous spirit and tireless willingness to serve. Where Charles led with strength, Connie carried grace. In all they built together, she remained his constant partner, marked by quiet strength and steadfast loyalty.

Throughout their life together, Connie and Charles were devoted members of the Greek Orthodox Church, which remained a cornerstone of her life. Their journey took them from Memphis, TN to Jackson, MS, then to Houston, TX, before eventually returning to Tennessee. Connie’s faith was not only expressed through prayer, but through gentle acts of kindness and service. She was actively involved in the Daughters of Penelope and served as past president of the Elpis Philoptochos Society, dedicating herself to philanthropy and caring for others.

Connie was a proud and loving mother to three children: Margaret Varnell (Hank), Ria Kofoed, and Harry Cotros (Joelle). Her family grew to include 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, all of whom were the greatest joy of her life. Through generosity and unwavering love, she was the steady presence her family relied upon, passing down values of faith and kindness.

Her happiest memories were made surrounded by family, especially during cherished time spent at their home in Longboat Key, FL. Connie also held a special place in her heart for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, proudly supporting its mission and firmly believing that “no child should die in the dawn of life.”

Connie is survived by her beloved husband, Charles Harry Cotros; her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Pete and Koula Pappas, and her sisters, Zoe Nickas, Helen Ballas, Georgia Cosmas, and Cecile Tashie. Connie and Cecile, twins, entered life together and eternal life together. Cecile preceded Connie by 18 hours and they are now among the righteous made perfect.

Services will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church 573 N. Highland, Memphis, TN, 38122. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Connie’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

She will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.