Jim was born on October 27, 1957, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to Elias Demetrios Tarsinos and Dolores Stoltz. He graduated from Princeton High School and continued his education at Knox
College in Galesburg, Illinois, where he painted his way through school. Jim began his career in juvenile rehabilitation, where he became affectionately known as “Chief.” Passionate and determined in every endeavor, he began pursuing his own business
ventures in the mid-1980s. In 1995, after the birth of his son, he founded JET Rubber, Inc. Jim took great pride in his work and cared for his employees as though they were family.
Jim married Gail Gouvellis in 1988. Together, they made their home in Houston, Texas, and welcomed their son, Elias Demetrios Tarsinos, in 1991. Known for his unwavering faith, magnetic charisma, and generous spirit, Jim lived life with
enthusiasm. He enjoyed music, traveling, cooking, watching movies, and, most of all, caring for the people around him.
Jim is survived by his son, Elias; his daughter-in-law, Margaret Worthington Tarsinos; his three grandsons, Stayton, Oliver, and Scotland; his siblings, Athena, Pericles, and Thalia Tarsinos;
and his nephews, Elias and Evan Theodoropoulos.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Dolores; his father, Elias; his wife, Gail; and his stepmother, Electra.
Visitation will be held on Monday, September 14, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home and Cemetery, located at 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77079. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, located at 3511 Yoakum Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77006.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jim’s memory to Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
Above all, Jim will be remembered for his charismatic personality, giving spirit, unwavering faith, and unmistakable zest for life.
