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The Reverend George Demetrios Kontos died peacefully in Baton Rouge, Louisiana surrounded by his family on Saturday, February 1, 2014. He was 70 years old. He was born in Waycross, Georgia in 1943 into a family of proud Greek heritage. He graduated from the University of Georgia, and the General Theological Seminary in New York City, and was ordained an Episcopal priest in 1969. Father George (as he was commonly called) also graduated from the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation in Washington D.C. His passion for teaching spiritual formation took him all over the country. This devotion for deepening spiritual life culminated in the development of the St. James Episcopal Center for Spiritual Formation in Baton Rouge, La where he served for 12 years. He was Rector of St. Stephens Episcopal Church, Innis, LA, and served as Rector of Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, Tallahassee, FL and a number of other parishes in Georgia, Florida and Louisiana for more than 45 years. His four life-passions were the love of his Lord, his family, his Greek heritage and college football. His loving heart was torn in three directions: the University of Georgia, Florida State University and Louisiana State University. He is survived by his wife Theresa; his children, Elizabeth (Hilton) Hightower, Tallahassee, Florida; Tassie (Mike) Sheridan, Tallahassee; Jimmy (Ashley) Kontos, St. Petersburg, Florida; granddaughters Sophia, Ava and Lily Hightower, Tallahassee, FL; and grandson George D. Kontos, St. Petersburg; his sisters Anastasia Kontos, Savannah, GA; Kathy Kontos, and Irene (Marion) Shadron, both of Waycross, GA, and much beloved extended family. Father George was preceded in death by his parents Jimmy and Tassie Kontos, his sister Virginia Kontos, and his nephew Michael Shadron. Memorial services for Father George are in Innis, LA at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church on Thursday, February 6, 2014 at 11am and in Tallahassee, FL at St. John's Episcopal Church on Tuesday February 11, 2014 at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in his name be made to Holy Comforter Episcopal Church and Day School, 2001 Fleischmann Road Tallahassee, Florida 32308.
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I am George Kontos godson. I am blessed to have spoken to him on the phone about what it means to be a priest. God Bless you Terry.
-Jesse Merritt II
September 16, 2014
Hello Terry & Family, I am so sorry to let you know that I am so sorry to hear of George's illness & Passing. I know how you must be feeling now. I went through pretty much, Fulltime caregiver for Mom, (Peggy Sauls) For nearly 8 years My thoughts & love go out to you. He is a good place now. If you want to, contact me. Take care of yourself. Lynette Sauls
Lynette Sauls
April 27, 2014
Terri,
I am saddened to hear about George's passing. May God be with you during this difficult time.
Dawn Langston
February 25, 2014
I have signed this lovely book before, but George was a dear friend of mine, as well as the priest who, with Bishop Cerveney, confirmed me in 1979. Then they sent me off to England! -- where I ran into Bp. Cerveney in Victoria Station, of all things! Then saw George, of course, when I returned to HC. I'm writing now to change my e-mail since my old one was cancelled. New e-mail below. Love to all, Betty W.
Betty Willard
February 25, 2014
George Kontos married John Paul and myself, in 1979, at St Paul Episcopal Church, in Quincy, Fl. We were blessed that both of our children got to meet him when they were little...he especially loved Halloween! What a loss....my prayers to Terry and all the Kontos'. Know he was loved ~
Jan Jordan Walters
February 22, 2014
Dearest Terry, David and I are so very sorry to learn of George's death. We have loved and talked about him so often over these last 31 years of marriage. His joy and love of life, the Bulldogs, and all of you was so apparent and it made all of us more joyful in life, and we continue to thank God for George's part in it. While we know that your faith will carry you through this time of grief, we also know that you will miss him terribly. Our love, prayer and thoughts go out to you and your children and grandchildren.
David and Leigh Coulter Beal
married at Holy Comforter by Father George, March 26, 1983)
Leigh Coulter Beal
February 21, 2014
Hi Terri,
Julie and I and the kids
love George and always will. We have been living on cape Cod since 1986 and have thought of you folks often. I googled George just a couple of months ago and never did get around to contact him. I will always regret that. I just wanted to tell him that I loved him. After all my years as a church musician He was the one that stands out as really appreciating our ministry.
Love to all, Richard and Julie Winchell
508 385-2022 [email protected]
February 17, 2014
My condolences to the Kontos family. I have many wonderful memories as a child of Father Kontos , he will be missed.
Christy Ervin
February 17, 2014
Terry, I was so sorry to read of George's death. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Linda Enfinger
February 14, 2014
What a legacy of love and adoration from the myriad of people whose lives were enriched by Father George!!! Holy Comforter was a loving beacon for me and so many others, because of him. I will always treasure the gifts of his unconditional love; his simple yet profound teachings; and his gentle spirit. Father George truly personified the reality of Jesus among us. To his family, I pray that you will draw comfort from the heart-felt sentiments shared on these pages; and that THE Holy Comforter will sustain you during this time of loss. Love to you all.
Janis Williamson
February 13, 2014
I had the honor of teaching at Holy Comforter when Fr. George was rector there. I watched him sing, pray and cajole all of the beautiful children when tragedies struck, and hug and laugh with all of us the rest of the time. He was a true gift from God, and was duly blessed to have three such gorgeous children and an amazing wife. I am so sorry.
Betty Serow
February 12, 2014
George was such a wonderful and compassionate priest who came to our home to baptize my youngest nearly thirty years ago since David had medical restrictions early on. My heart goes out to all of your family at this time of loss. Blessings and Love, Lynda
Lynda McCaleb
February 11, 2014
I am so saddened to hear of Father Kontos' death. He confirmed me and traveled to Alabama to marry my husband and I. He will always have a very special place in my heart for these reasons, as well as for the fact that he was one of the kindest souls I have ever known. He was truly a special and remarkable person. I will look forward to seeing him when I get to Heaven, as I know he will greet me with a giant smile and a warm hug. My deepest condolences to the Kontos family as you mourn the loss of your beloved husband and father. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Carrie Barton
February 11, 2014
We are deeply sorry and saddened for your loss.
Joyce and Craig Hoffman
February 11, 2014
So much love for this man, who emanated joy, vibrancy, and life. 20+ years after meeting him, I still smile when I think of him. One of my most vivid memories is of "Papa George" after church service opening his arms wide as all the children ran into his arms and into the embrace of his seminary cloak (always amazed they didn't knock him over). Much gratitude and love to him in his freedom. Much love to the family in the loss of this dear man.
Amy McDowell
February 11, 2014
Father George was always ready to visit Mom in the hospital and to help her cope with her illness. He'll be missed greatly. His sense of humor was outstanding. All of you are in my prayers.
Anna l
February 11, 2014
Terri, my daughter in Tallahassee sent me the news about Father George. We were members of Holy Comforter when we lived in Tallahassee. My brother, Bob Marsh, was there, when he was ordained. We loved him and Mac and I are sorry to hear the news. Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. God Bless you and your family.
Anne and Mac Green
February 10, 2014
Beloved Kontos family,
We were deeply saddened by the passing of our dear priest, friend, and brother, George. Our memories return to the Holy Comforter days when we and our families were young. With Father George, we shared happy times, sad times, and funny times He was our calm in the storm and enriched all our lives beyond measure. I know we will see him again in the light of Christ and that Heaven is an even happier place because he is there. Please accept our love and prayers.
Jim, Carla, Hilary, & Eric Girtman
February 10, 2014
Dear Terri,
I am so very sorry for your loss and you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Bob Richardson
February 10, 2014
I remember George from his time as Vicar at Christ Church Dublin, GA. He was an important part of our family at an important time in our lives. I seldom went very long without running into someone who grew up with him, served with him or went to UGA with him. He was a kind and gentle man.He will be missed by many.
Butch Traylor
February 10, 2014
Theresa,
Very sorry to hear about your husband. I sent a note earlier but forgot to sign it. George officiated my Dad's funeral in 1976 and my Mom and Dad were founding members of Holy Comforter Episcopal Church.
Sincere Personal Regards,
Franklin Thompson
Franklin Thompson
February 10, 2014
Dear Terri,
So very sorry to hear of George's death. Remember well our fun times in Jacksonville, way back when. God's Deep Peace be with you and your children. Hugs and love,
Susan & Bob Cowperthwaite
February 10, 2014
Dear Terry, I am so sorry for your loss. We knew he was very ill but had hoped and prayed he would recover. Although I never met him, it seems that from the comments here; he must have been needed in heaven. Warmest thoughts and prayers to you and your family at this difficult time. Love to you...K'Lynn
Kathryn
February 9, 2014
I forgot the candle in my first posting. Our lights will pale in comparison to the light in which George is living! HALLELUJAH Betty W.
Betty Willard
February 9, 2014
George!! How dare you get to Heaven before ME?? Oh, I am so sorry for all of us on earth, especially your family. I hope some of them remember me, especially Elizabeth & your wife. I was newly at Holy Comforter when you first came! Well, I'll see you whenever the Lord wills, and it will be a GREAT reunion! Will someone call and/or e-mail me and let me know how they are and, if they want to, what happened? I love you to this day & eternally, for your kindness and understanding towards me. Betty Willard.
Betty Willard
February 9, 2014
Please accept our sincere condolences.
Steve Edwards and family
February 9, 2014
My heart is broken just hearing about his passing. God has his angel's working on earth, George was one.
Rick Moore
February 9, 2014
Father George was the first person we met upon moving to Tallahassee in 1989. He was a light unto our path. My deepest sympathy to the Kontos family.
Martha Alexander
February 9, 2014
Theresa,
So sorry to hear about your husband. Many thanks to him for officiating my Dad's funeral in 1976. My Mom and Dad were two of the founding members of Holy Comforter Episcopal Church.
February 9, 2014
Terri, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I love you and am here for you, day or night.
Angela Gauthier
February 8, 2014
Fr. George was an enormous part of my spiritual development and beloved by our whole family. Rest in Peace. Love to all the dear ones who will miss him daily.
Dona and Jack Carbone
February 8, 2014
I remember Father George as a delightful person and a fine holy priest.
Bishop Harry Shipps
February 7, 2014
I feel privileged to have known you. Such a kind, caring person.
Billy Way
February 6, 2014
Terri and family, please know that we are sending prayers of strength and courage as you deal with the passing of Canon Kontos. We value our memories of your time with us at St. John's Cathedral. Susan was quick to recall that you served on her Cursillo Team #10! May God bless you all.
with love, the Corey Family
Tom, Lorraine, Susan, Angela, Tommy, Tammie, Cathy and Marlo
Cathy Corey
February 6, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with the Kontos family today. I will not be able to attend the service, but all of you will be on my mind. Rest in Peace Father Kontos. I'm glad I got to see you at Albertsons on Essen!
Tracie Way
St James Episcopal Church
Tracie Way
February 6, 2014
Terri, we are so very saddened by the news of George's death and send our love, thoughts, and prayers to you, Elizabeth, Tassie, Jimmy, and their families. Heaven must be a more beautiful place today with George in it. We send profound prayers for comfort for all of you.
Judy and Tom Perry
February 5, 2014
Terri and family,
My heartfelt sympathy is with you and your family. May God's peace and comfort touch you. Love and hugs, Nancy
Nancy Chorba
February 5, 2014
It is with great sadness that I learned of George's death. We went through EYC and Camp Reese together eons ago. George and his sister Irene were always voted the friendliest and the happiest campers. George was an able President of the diocesan EYC. We lost touch after each of us was graduated from high school. Much love to his family whom I know basked in his love and warm personality.
Laura Haskell Phinizy
February 5, 2014
I WAS A GRADE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL FRIEND OF GEORGE. ATE WONDERFUL FOOD COOKED BY HIS GRANDMOTHER AT THEIR HOME-HAVEN'T SEEN HIM IN OVER 51 YEARS - BUT I NEVER FORGOT AND WILL NEVER FORGET HIM - HE WAS A GREAT GUY. MY SISTER SYLVIA FLANDERS WAS FRIENDS WITH HIS SISTER.
CHARLES FLANDERS
February 5, 2014
It is with shock and dismay that I just read the sad news of the death of my dear friend, Fr. George D. Kontos. Our families were interlaced in Waycross, Georgia. Fr. George and I were priests together in the Diocese of Georgia for a number of years. In the summer of 1968, he and I, along with two other priests, led the High School Camp for Children in the Diocese of Georgia. Many of those campers will remember him for his wit and contagious smile. My heart is heavy, but I rejoice over the many contributions he made to the lives of those around him who profited from his ministry.
Fr. Ted Atwood,
Priest of the Diocese of Georgia,
Retired in Southern California
February 5, 2014
Dear Terri,
Christina and I are terribly saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers! May your faith sustain you and may God comfort you all during this difficult time.
Melissa Dill
February 5, 2014
Please accept our condolences on your loss. May the God of tender mercies provide comfort to you during this most difficult time.
February 5, 2014
Oh, Theresa, I am so sad to hear about George. He was a wonderful, kind and gentle spirit full of life, music and fun. He touched every member of my family--Becca and Sarah's first communions and 2 years at Holy Comforter Day School, Selena and Shawn confirmations and Shawn's EYC experience at Holy Comforter. I will never forget him walking into Children's Chapel with his guitar and a big smile on his face. Julian loved and respected George, too, and they shared some humor for sure. I know Julian is welcoming him in Heaven. My toughts and prayers are with you and your family and especially for you, my friend. Even though we have not seen each other in recent years, you hold a special place in my heart and memories. I hope to see you when you are in Tallahassee next week. May God be with you and bless you and your family at this difficult time. Love you. Sally
Sally Roberts
February 5, 2014
Terri, you are in prayers tonight and beyond. I love you dearly. My heart aches for you and I just want you to know how much you are loved. xoxoxo
Tiphanie Clark
February 4, 2014
Terri, my heart is broken learning of the loss of your dear and precious George. I have no words. Sending an abundance of love and prayers your way.
Andie Triche
February 4, 2014
When I was 10, Fr. Kontos was the priest at Holy Comforter. I became an acolyte under his direction. I remember the first time I ever served as an acolyte, standing next to him to help set up for communion. Even if I made a mistake it was okay. In his eyes I did a good job, as did all his new acolytes. I can remember him bringing his guitar and teaching us songs. He made a deep and lasting impression on my life and he will be missed.
Hilary Girtman
February 4, 2014
Deep condolences from Tilden Edwards and the Shalem Institute. I remember his concern and gifts for spiritual formation with great respect, and his loving heart with a great sense of his beauty. May his family and all he's known and cared for remember his wonderful soul.
February 4, 2014
Father Kontos was such a special part of our children's Christian education and spiritual development while at SJEDS. I always loved seeing him with his guitar and hearing him sing with the children. He had a sweet gentle smile and a kind word every time we saw him. Truly a blessing!
Mary Leah & Martin Walke
February 4, 2014
I am forever grateful for Father George Kontos and the impact he had on my family. Nellie and Garner were blessed to learn God's love through George's service at both the church and day school. Father Kontos married me and my dear husband Bob. He encouraged and taught us such deepening of our faith and spirituality as well as the fun and joy in God's love.
Terri, we love you and hold you in our hearts and prayers.
Much love, Mary Garner DeVoe and Bob Calongne
February 3, 2014
Terri and Family........ Our thoughts and prayers are with you now. May God Bless you with peace and love and comfort at this time. Much love from Suzan and Mike Rolland
Suzan & Mike Rolland
February 3, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May the peace of the Lord be with you during your time of loss. God Bless.
Gary and Kaye Clinkscales
February 2, 2014
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