John J. Sarris

Alabaster

John J. Sarris of Alabaster died on Wednesday, Oct. 15 at his home.  He was preceded in death by his parents, James T.  and Georgia Gulas Sarris and his brother, Phillip J. Sarris.  He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 51 years, Catherine Cassimus Sarris; sister, Lillian S. Pelekis; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and by his beloved dachshund, Dolly.

John attended Shades Valley High School, Auburn University, and the University of Alabama.  He is the owner of John J. Sarris Nursery, wholesale orchid distributor.  He was an active member of the American Orchid Society and was very generous with donations of orchids to many charities.  One of his greatest pleasures was donating over 600 orchids of different varieties annually to his church, Holy Trinity Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral, at Easter to venerate and decorate the Epitafio.  He was an active member of the Cathedral and was a past member of the board of trustees.  John also gave generously of his time to the many community activities of Alabaster, reading to school children during school day activities, an active member of the Beautification Board and the Water Board, participating in Leadership Shelby County, organizing the annual Christmas Parade, and helping carry the flame through the city for the Atlanta Olympics.  John was elected to and served on the Alabaster City Council from 1988-2000.  He served as Council President from 1996-2000 and was also a member of the Alabama League of Municipalities.  John served in the Army military and was a member of the 87 MAC Reserves.  He was a member of the Shades Valley Blue 829 Shrine Scottish Rite.  He was recognized by Shriners International for his generosity and participation with Shriner’s Hospital for Children.  John loved to travel.  He and Catherine traveled to 19 countries during their marriage, even going on an orchid safari.

Funeral Services wereheld on Monday, Oct. 20 at Holy Trinity Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral located at 307 19th Street South, Birmingham, Alabama 35223.  The visitation was from 10- 11 a.m. Services began at 11 a.m.  Burial followed at Elmwood Cemetery.  A traditional Makaria luncheon was held in the Church Hall after burial services.  Those wishing to remember John may make a donation to Holy Trinity Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral or to a charity of choice.  Services are under the direction of Ridout’s Valley Chapel (879-3401) in Homewood.