Terry Kougias

Teresa ‘Terry’ Kathleen Kougias, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister-in-law, and sisterly friend, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, at the age of 70. Born in San Diego, CA, on November 21, 1954, she was a loving presence in the lives of all who knew her.

Terry was known for her beautiful smile, intelligence, kind heart, deep faith, unwavering strength, and her immense dedication to her family. She was a devoted and beloved wife of 43 years to the love of her life, George T. Kougias. Throughout her life, Terry’s remarkable ability to nurture and care for others stood out, and she inspired all who were fortunate enough to know her. With the joy and light that accompanied her, she selflessly put the needs of others before her own and made her family her priority in every sense. She was proud of her children and found immeasurable happiness in being a grandmother to her many beloved grandchildren.

Terry graduated in 1975 from the esteemed Los Angeles County Medical Center School of Nursing and was a dedicated and caring nurse for 33 years. She made a lasting impact on countless lives through her compassionate care and commitment to helping others.

Terry loved spending time with her family, tending to her garden, and immersing herself in books. She had an uncanny ability to add beauty, love, and warmth to everything she touched. Her heart and soul were intertwined with her faith, family, and community.

Terry is survived by her loving husband George T. Kougias and their children [grandchildren] Kelly (James) Durham, Kimberly (Mark) Albert-Beshay [Maddeline, Alexander, and Benjamin], Nicholas Kougias [Brian and Logan], and Daniel (Diana) Kougias [Zoya].

Terry also had a loving presence in the lives of her stepchildren Thomas (Raedeen) Kougias, Jesse (Stacy) Kougias, Katina Walker Kougias, and Michelle (Kenny) Simmons.

She was predeceased by her parents, MSgt. Albert C. Barkausas, USMC and Bessie A. Harrington Barkauskas, who loved her more than words could ever express. John 3:16.

Family and friends of the Kougias family are respectfully invited to attend the funeral services for Terry.
A Visitation will be held from 10:00am until 11:30am at Sax-Tiedemann Funeral Home ~ 9568 Belmont Avenue, Franklin Park, IL, 60131.
A graveside service will be convened immediately after at Elmwood Cemetery and Mausoleum (2905 North Thatcher Road) in River Grove.

Memorial donations may be made in Terry's memory to Emmanuel Bible Church, c/o Rev. Dan Swartz (2887 Hopkinsville Road) in Cadiz, KY 42211.