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Celebrating the life of

Stavros Gregory Andris (aka Harry Andris, Jr.)

Passed away on July 04, 2021

Stavros Gregory Andris (aka Harry Andris, Jr.)

To view a live stream of the funeral, click here.

Stavros Gregory Andris (aka Harry G. Andris, Jr.), of Savannah, Georgia, passed away peacefully with his loved ones near on July 4th, 2021, at the age of 90.

He was born the only child to his Greek immigrant parents Gregory Stavros Andris (aka Harry G. Andris, Sr.) and Athena Andris, on September 1st, 1930 in Waterbury, Connecticut.

In 1933, the Andris family moved to Savannah, Ga which became Harry’s home.  As an only child, Harry found countless “brothers” and “sisters” in his friends as he grew, never knowing a stranger.  His best friend was Theodore “Ted” Lamas.  Ted was “Lightning” and Harry (Stavros), was “Thunder”.  Harry had many nicknames: Standing at 6’6” Harry was known to many as “Stoop” because he was so tall he had to stoop to get through doorways. Harry spent a lot of time playing ball and swimming at the beach on Tybee Island.  Together, Harry and Ted developed a great passion for Jazz music and went on many adventures to see and listen to the amazing jazz artists of the swing and bebop eras (‘30’s and ‘40’s).

Harry (Stavros) attended Savannah High School where he played basketball for the mighty Blue Jackets and graduated in 1948.  He went on to obtain a BA in Business from University of Georgia.  While there, he met Baciliky “Betty" Poulos on a blind date.  His best friend Ted was dating her sister, “Cissy” Themis Poulos.  One evening, when the guys were going to a Jazz Concert, Ted talked Harry (who had a car) into picking up Cissy to make it a date. Ted made arrangements for Harry to take Cissy’s sister, Betty.   Harry was not too happy about the prospect of a blind date with someone he did not know.  (After all, that was not the plan.  The plan was two cool cats going to a cool Jazz concert). Fate saw things differently and Harry ultimately agreed to the blind date.  Harry often recalled that when Betty came down the stairs and he saw her for the first time, he fell in love and knew he had just met the woman he would marry and the love of his life.  And that she was.

When Betty introduced Harry to her family as her boyfriend, the family took in his tall, handsome looks and kind demeanor and dubbed him the “Gentle Giant”. 

Ted married Cissy in November, 1951 and had three boys. Harry married Betty on June 22nd, 1952 and had three girls.  And life was beautiful.

Harry (Stavros) was a Lt. in US Army from 1954- 1956 and continued as a reservist until 1962. After serving a stint in Germany, Harry and Betty lived happily in Savannah, Ga with their three daughters: Elaine, Athena and Tassie and loved life. He worked at the Dixie Finance Company and the Chips Drive-in and Putt-Putt course. On weekends he would take his family to Tybee Island to enjoy the beach.  They had picnics together and listened to great music.  He would dance with Betty and sometimes carry his daughters atop his 6’6” frame, a vantage point from where they were certain they could see the whole world. 

Sadly, everything would change when, in 1968, Betty was diagnosed with breast cancer.  Harry did everything in his power to try to save his Betty including making the long trek with her and the three young girls to Sloan-Kettering in New York.  There they learned nothing could be done. Tragically, and after 17 years of marriage, on Sunday, Aug 3rd, 1969 time stopped for Harry when his beloved Betty succumbed to the thief that is cancer. She was only38 years old.

Not really knowing how to go forward, they moved in with Harry’s parents.  Life changed for all of them.  The family took a memorable trip to Greece the following summer (1970). There, Harry took his girls everywhere and visited many places to meet relatives and learn about their Greek roots. When they returned, the three girls lived with their paternal grandparents while Harry went back to school receiving his BS in Health and Physical Education (1974) from the University of Miami.  

Harry returned to Savannah where he spent the majority of his career as a High School Physical Education Teacher and Athletic Coach for many sports including Football, Basketball, Track, Tennis, and Golf.  He continued educating himself earning his MEd in Special Education at Armstrong in 1977.

He returned to the University of Georgia from 1982-1984 where he received his EdS and served as a graduate assistant basketball coach under Head Coach Hugh Durham with the incomparable Bulldogs of that time including great athletes like Dominique Wilkins, Elmore Spencer and Vern Fleming.

He returned to Savannah to lovingly care for his parents until they passed: his father Gregory (1990) and later, his mother Athena (1994).

He continued teaching and coaching, and ultimately retired from his beloved Alma Mater, Savannah High School in1999.

Although Betty passed away in 1969, she was always first in his heart and he cherished her memory with a love that was truly rare. He had a beautiful voice and loved the songs: I’ll Be Seeing You (Fain/Kahal);The Shadow of your Smile (Mandel/Webster) and Stardust (Hoagy Carmichael) and would think of her lovingly when singing the lyrics.

Harry (Stavros) had a passion for Jazz Music.  He was an accomplished musician, actor and singer. He performed local concerts in Savannah and even performed a little on Broadway in the 1966 production of Superman.   He was a great photographer (before the digital era), and dabbled as an artist using charcoals and oils.  He shot a great game of pool and was very smooth on the dance floor. Harry loved sports of all kinds.  He was a Life Guard when he was younger.  He played Basketball in high school with the Mighty Blue Jackets, the Sons of Pericles and in college at the University of GA with the Bulldogs.  He was a great Bowler, winning many tournaments and bowling MANY perfect 300 games.  Stavros loved nature and the beach.  He was VERY proud of his Greek heritage and was a lifetime member of St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church.  He was a member of the Sons of Pericles and the AHEPA.

Stavros is survived by his three loving daughters: Elaine Andris Pappas, (Bill); Athena Andris; Anastasia "Tassie" Andris Cantrell; his three grandchildren whom he loved, supported and was fiercely proud of: Michael G Cantrell, Jr., Baciliky "Betty" Andris Maxwell, (Spencer); Sophia Theodora Cantrell, many cousins, nieces ,nephews and extended family.

Stavros LOVED LIFE:  He never knew a stranger and was a trusted friend.

He was always happy to strike up a conversation with anyone about any topic. He loved teaching and coaching and was a constant source of help and support to anyone in his path.  He lived the example of his Christian faith.  

Stavros (Harry) may be gone from his earthly presence, but we find peace knowing he is happy once again with his precious, beloved Betty in heaven. As he passed from this life to heaven on July Fourth, the family will always see the fireworks as a celebration of this epic reunion and love story.

The Visitation/Trisagion will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Thursday, July 8th, 2021 at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.          

The Funeral will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, July 9th, 2021 at St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church with the graveside service immediately following at Greenwich Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Stavros’ (Harry’s) memory may be made to St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church, Savannah, GA; St. Philothea Greek Orthodox Church, Athens, GA; Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church, Macon, GA; Oconee Co. Senior Center, Watkinsville, GA.

I'll Be Seeing You

I'll be seeing you
In all the old familiar places
That this heart of mine embraces
All day and through

In that small cafe
The park across the way
The children's carousel
The chestnut trees, the wishing well

I'll be seeing you
In every lovely summer's day
In everything that's light and gay
I'll always think of you that way

I'll find you in the morning sun
And when the night is new
I'll be looking at the moon
But I'll be seeing you


The Shadow of Your Smile

The shadow of your smile
When you have gone
Will color all my dreams
All light the dawn
Look into my eyes my love and see
All the lovely things you are to me

Our wistful little star
Was far too high
A teardrop kissed your lips
And so did I

Now when I remember spring
All the joys that love can bring
I will be remembering
The shadow of your smile


Stardust

Sometimes I wonder why I spend
The lonely nights dreaming of a song
The melody haunts my reverie
And I am once again with you

When our love was new
And each kiss an inspiration
But that was long ago
Now my consolation is in the stardust of a song

Beside the garden wall when stars are bright
You are in my arms
The nightingale tells his fairy tale
Of paradise where roses grew

Though I dream in vain 
In my heart it will remain
My stardust melody
The memory of love's refrain
 

 

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Memory eternal to our friend Stavro, full of life and a twinkle in his eye to the end. An example of a well lived life. May he rest in a place of light and green pastures where there is no pain sorrow or suffering but life everlasting with the communion of the Saints.

- Fr Anthony and Presvytera Christine Salzman, Watkinsville, GA

Memory eternal to our friend Stavro, full of life and a twinkle in his eye to the end. An example of a well lived life. May he rest in a place of light and green pastures where there is no pain sorrow or suffering but life everlasting with the communion of the Saints.

- Fr Anthony and Presvytera Christine Salzman, Watkinsville, GA

Harry was A very good friend, we grew up together and had many,many good times with his friend Ted and the jazz concerts… so sorry to hear about your loss

- Irene Chiboucas, Savannah, GA

Sending prayers to the family in your time of Bereavement. Coach was a big help to me as a jazz band director.

- Michael Hutchinson, Rincon, Georgia

Coach Andris! How I loved listening to your wise stories! Not once did you mention you played and sang! We could've talked about that too! Thank you so much for your influence on our lives! Your students loved you and we are better because we had you in our lives! My condolences to your family...I know your wife will be happy to have you join her. Rest well sir! You lived a full life!

- Tye Whitely, Savannah, Ga

Mr. Andris came singing into my life many years ago- literally. He introduced himself to me after a concert of mine the he attended- he was cheerleader, a big support, a vocal coach, and a life coach. He was a dear friend. My prayers go out to his family.

- Huxsie Scott , Savannah, Georgia

Coach was an awesome wonder. Thank You for sharing him with us.

- April Snider-Brown, Savannah, GA

My condolences to your family. Coach you where an awesome man I remember you from Savannah High always was straight to the point. I use to talk so much in your class you always use to say Jiles not today lol

- Lorita Jiles-Orr, Hinesville, GA

My condolences to his family.Coach was an unforgettable guy! Always had a story to tell, that would lighten any mood. Rest well sir.

- Clarence Graybill, Orlando, Florida

I loved coach there never was a full moment always a believer and loved the blue and white SHS BLUEJACKETS RIP COACH #6 C/O 97 TOUCOM.

- Jamal Mcdonald, Savannah, GA

Tassie & Family, I am so sorry for the loss of your DAD.. My Prayers & Blessings for all of you.

- LaRue Babbitt, Byron, GA

Truly an inspiration and always a good friend. My uncle Dennis and Stevros were great friends.I have always known your dad and respected him highly he will be missed.

- Bob Mataxas , Richmond , Tx.

I'm so sorry to hear of Coach Stavros' passing, but am deeply moved and cheered to have shared a small piece of his full and distinguished life. I've known Coach since the early 1990's when I moved to Savannah as an Army captain and became quickly immersed in Ben Tucker's jazz scene here. When I became a board member, and later president, of the Coastal Jazz Association (SavannahJazz) I knew I would see Coach at every concert, festival event and public appearance. He was a devoted fan, a knowledgeable listener, and a true friends. He especially loved the big bands, and made a point of talking to every single young musician about their instrument, their influences, and their plans. I always loved seeing him, would spend as much time as I could speaking with him after a performance or in between a set. He was often the last to leave, and would pitch in and help, or just keep us company as we packed up. Stavros Gregory Andris is one of the reasons musicians love performing. He was a lovely guy who commanded respect and exuded empathy. To his family, thanks for sharing this lovely man with our jazz community over so many years. We certainly missed him during the last pandemic year of virtual concerts. May he rest in peace.

- Howard Paul, Savannah, GA

My sincere condolences to the Andris Family ❤

- Coach Walter E Luten Jr , Savannah, GA

Prayers and condolences to the family. Thanks, for sharing Coach with us. He was very charismatic and enjoyabe to be around. We enjoyed every moment with him on the football field. He truly loved Savannah High. Rest Well Coach!

- Brian Simmon - SHS 1996, Atlanta , GA

Athena, my heart is absolutely breaking for you. Know that you are constantly in my thoughts.

- John Davis, Duluth, GA

I remember Mr Andris from map skills he taught at SHS.I often told him that I would not need these skills and how to read a map. 20 years later, I left Savannah. Move 4 hrs away. Yes. I thank you. I am using these skills everyday. Great teacher and coach.

- Zylthia aka SHS Graduated, Ellenwood, Georgia

Tassie, I am sorry for the loss of your father. Your Dad was a man of many talents. I know you loved him very much. I’m praying for you and your family. Love, Kathy

- Kathy Shipes, Bonaire, GA

Our sincere condolences to Harry’s family. Having grown up with Harry in Savannah and on Tybee I was constantly in his presence since he and my brother Ted were like brothers. I learned more about jazz from the pair than I could have gotten in a college course. He was always friendly to all and was a great conversationalist. He will be missed immensely. “May his Memory be Eternal” Arthur & Tassie Lamas

- Arthur A. Lamas, Atlanta, Georgia

May His Memory be Eternal. He was always involved with our GOYA and AHEPA Basketball teams and was an inspiration to all. He will be truly missed. Find strength in that he is now at peach resting comfortably up above.

- DEMETRI MILTIADES, Kennesaw, GA

Tassie, our prayers are with you and your family. Love, Robert & Mary Thomas

- Mary Carey Thomas, Columbus, Georgia

I was privileged to meet Harry a little over 20 years ago, when I first began to play concerts with the Savannah Jazz Orchestra. He introduced himself after my first concert, we struck up a conversation, and I was immediately awed by his love for and knowledge of jazz music. Equally as striking was his ability to make this new acquaintance feel as if I had known him for years. He seemed to be a regular fixture at every concert we gave, and I always looked forward to our brief but regular conversations. HIs enthusiasm and sheer joy were infectious and certainly appreciated by the musicians who came to know him. He was truly a local treasure. I have missed seeing him over the past year, and I shall continue to miss him sorely. My sincerest condolences to his family.

- Paul Wesley Lott, SAVANNAH, GA

Elaine and family, your daddy left a beautiful legacy. My heart and prayers go out to you and all who knew and loved him.

- Marie James-Banderas, Savannah , Ga

Our hearts and prayers are with your family. Love you Tassie and am holding you up.

- Don and Lola Rosenbaum, Warner Robins, GA

MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY

- Lawrence Bunny Bryan 111, Savannah, Georgia

A candle has been lit!

Our heartfelt sympathies to the Andris Family on the loss of your beloved father. Hoping you find peace and comfort in your loving memories. May his memory be Eternal. We will never forget him. Much love, Barbara and John

- Barbara and John Fortunato, Peabody, MA

A candle has been lit!

I wish I could come to Savannah and comfort you in person. Know that my prayers are with all of you. Love, Barbara

- Barbara Vinson Hall, Lawrenceville, GA

My heart is broken, not just for the Andris family but for the WORLD! What a wonderful man and what a wonderful soul Coach Andris was to so many. I will forever cherish the wisdom and life teachings he bestowed upon me and my teammates. To this very day we use and reach back for those precious moments more than ever. Coach Andris saved lives with his own and a debt like that can never be repaid. Thank you and rest easy Coach. Bless.

- Laroe Adams, Jacksonville , FL

May Stavros memory be eternal. Tassie, Betty, Mike and Sophia, we wish to extend our sincerest condolences to you and your families. We always enjoyed our visits with Stavro and will hold his memory in our hearts forever.

- Richard and Assimina Stewart, Warner Robins, GA

May Stavros memory be eternal. Tassie, Betty, Mike and Sophia, we wish to extend our sincerest condolences to you and your families. We always enjoyed our visits with Stavro and will hold his memory in our hearts forever.

- Richard and Assimina Stewart, Warner Robins, GA

A candle has been lit!

I am sadden to learn that your dad has passed. I can see him from one end of the hallways at SHS to the other end. He was the gentle giant and so amazing with his tales and talents. He coached many young men through the years and always had kind words to give. Athena and Tassie, you have wonderful memories to share with your loved ones.

- Mary Ford Parian, Savannah, GA

Rest In Peace dear unique uncle.We always remember you with love and respect. May God rest your soul in heaven. Prayers and condolences for your beautiful daughters and family Your nephews Maria and George Trovas

- Μαρια Γραβαρη Τροβα, Αθηναι, Ελλάδα

Mr. Andris was a wonderful human being. I met him at Savannah High School in the nineties. I taught Family and Consumer Sciences (Home Economics), and I volunteered to cook for the football team. He volunteered for our football Coach Tommy Macon. He loved coaching our young guys. He loved talking with everyone, and was a joy to be around. Coach Andris shared many stories about jazz musicians and sports. I will miss his warm smile. He shared joy and love to everyone he met. You all were blessed with a wonderful father, grandfather, father-in-law, relative, and friend. May he Rest In Peace. Peace be with all of you, Susie Tukes Ingram, a friend

- Susie Ingram, Pooler, Ga

Our condolences to the family.

- The Bartley Family, Savannah, GA

My sincerest condolences to the family of Coach Andris he was a great friend and co-worker. Love from Coach Macon and the 1992 Savannah High School Football Team. Famous request of Coach Andris "PUT IN THE Quick Kick".

- Tommy And Avis Macon, Dallas , Ga

A candle has been lit!

What a charmed life he lead: In going home to be with his wife again, now forever, he is surrounded by his three beautiful daughters. Beauty in the send-off and perfection in the reception. So happy for this good man.

- Boyd Theodore Cantrell Family, Ocala, Florida

Coach was a very kind man. My prayers and deepest sympathy!!

- Vera Lloyd Trappio , Savannah , Ga

I am so sorry to hear this sad news. My sincerest condolences to the family on this loss. Coach Andris was a very dedicated teacher who truly cared about the students he taught. Those are rare indeed. Rest well.

- Marie Crosby, Oxford, Ga

Coach will be missed he help me alot in. High School will never forget him

- Niketa Brantley , Savannah , Georgia

Elaine and Bill, I am sad for you in the loss of your father, but thankful that you had him for so long. After reading his obituary I understand what an incredible life he lived. You and your sisters were truly blessed to have such a wonderful dad. Send you love. Jane

- Jane Bowen, Crawford, GA

Coach Andris you will forever hold a place in our hearts!! You was a funny man and always smiling!!! I could hear your voice, “Melody get to class now” You fought a good fight and changed a lot of lives. Sleep in peace Coach

- Melody Baker, Savannah , Georgia

Wow-what a life..such a beautiful soul and now I know where his lovely grandchildren get all that talent from!! Sending love and peace to the family !! May you forever cherish your memories of your Gentle Giant!

- Debbie Moore , Atlanta , Ga

From the halls of 500 Washington Avenue to Aisles 1-10 in Kroger on Victory Drive, it was ALWAYS an enlightening experience conversing with Coach Andris. Thank you to his family for sharing him with the SHS Community. The class of 1991, sends heart felt condolences.

- Gloria Brack Lloyd , Rincon, Georgia

Sincere condolences from to the Andris Family. Coach truly "LOVED" The Savannah High Blue Jackets!!! I am so grateful for the many conversations, and knowledge he shared with me about teaching, sports and just life in general. Thanks for sharing Coach Andris (THE GREEK) with us!!!

- Tim Jordan, Savannah, Ga.

I had the pleasure of knowing one of his lovely and sweet daughters. Tassie and I graduated in the same class. After reading about her dad I can clearly see why she is the sweet person I knew in H.S. My condolences to the Andris family.

- Angela Bellinger, Stone Mountain, Ga

To an awesome Coach and teacher I will always the lessons you taught especially the history of Savannah High School.

- Dr.Niamia , Newington, Ga

A candle has been lit!

Great Coach and Teacher my condolences. goes out to the family.

- Willie Aiken, Savannah, GA

Harry was my favorite cousin by marriage. When I was a young boy Harry always treated me like an adult rather than a child. He was really interested in what I had to say. He was supportive of my music endeavors and had such a positive outlook. Truly a remarkable man.

- Danny Stephens, Sandy Springs, Ga

I want to thank Stavros for taking me as a young greek 17 year old kid back in 1986, became my guardian for two years so I could attend high school in America and then go to college. He was my hero, my guardian angel, my mentor! I will never forget him and always pray to meet him again in the afterlife. THANK YOU STAVROS FOR EVERYTHING...

- MARGELIS , Voula, Greece

I remember Coach Andris, meeting him thru his daughters. I too am a Marching Blue Jacket alum. Grateful that he had a long life and made a lasting impact on so many.

- Debbie Hagins, M D, Savannah, GA

He was the teacher amongst all students who always gave his best. I am very proud to be one of them and he will always have a place in my heart.

- Freddie McDonald Jr , Swansboro , NC

Athena & Tassie, I’m sorry to hear about your dad passing away. A very interesting fellow. Your dad always had a story to tell. We were neighbors. I was on the corner of 51 st and Paulsen. Y’all were on the corner of 53 rd and Paulsen. The school is still there but with a new name. But, for all who went through , it will always be Savannah High School. I read about his nick name. Your dad had another one from the guys who came later on. To honor his heritage you could say. You would hear, here comes “The Greek”. Respectfully.

- Dewey Hooper, Savannah, Ga

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200


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