Chris Pappas Jr.

Chris Pappas, Jr., 93, died peacefully in his sleep on October 15, 2016 in Roswell, GA. He was born in Charlotte, NC to Chris and Gussie Pappas. He graduated from Central High School in 1939 and began his studies in engineering at Georgia Tech. World War II interrupted his education. Chris served in the Navy aboard the U.S.S Earle, earning the rank of lieutenant. He completed his degree at NC State and began his career in the textile industry, where he worked for many years, including a long stint as the National Sales Manager for Burlington Industries. After a mid-career pivot, he embarked on another successful career as a mortgage loan officer for a number of financial institutions.

His first marriage to Bettie Anne Washburn of Shelby, NC ended in divorce. His daughter from that marriage, Pamela Anne Pappas, M.D. (Scottsdale, AZ) survives him. He later married Ella Nielsen of Viborg, Denmark and had two children, Lisa Zerkle (Charlotte, NC) and Chris “Trey” Pappas, III (Burke, VA), who also survive him.

Chris was a gregarious gentleman who never met a stranger. Over the years, he enjoyed judo, backgammon, gardening, and bowling. He was also a ham radio enthusiast. Chris had a lifelong love of music, both as a sousaphone player and as a choir member.

He is survived by his children: Pam, Lisa (Andy), and Trey (Alisa); and his grandchildren: Jackson Zerkle, Isaac Zerkle, Eli Zerkle, Chris Pappas IV, Gracen Pappas, and Vivian Pappas. His sister, Mary Alice Beer of Fairfield Bay, AR, also survives him. He was preceded in death by his wives, Bettie and Ella.

The family is grateful to Gayle Horton, Kathy Kloss, and Lee Read for their dedicated care of Chris in his later years. Those wishing to send memorial gifts, please contact the Atlanta Humane Society at atlantahumane.org. H.M. Patterson & Son of Marietta, GA is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at hmpattersoncantonhill.com.