George Karavas

Celebrating the Life of George Karavas

George Karavas, of Brownsville, TX, devoted husband, proud father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, entered into eternal rest on October 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Chios, Greece, on November 03, 1952, he came to the U.S. as a teenager. He later built a life with his wife, Diane, sharing 50 years of love and enduring commitment. He was a proud dad to Matt and Billy, and a devoted Papou to six grandchildren and one great-grandchild who lit up his world.

George worked hard all his life. He started out driving a taxi in New York City, then ran businesses in Florida and Houston before settling the family in Brownsville, Texas, where he ran Friends Restaurant for many years. George spent decades in the restaurant business. He loved being in the kitchen, and shared his love of cooking with Diane. His Greek dishes were unforgettable: spanakopita, pastitsio, and so many meals made with love and shared with joy.

George was also a talented soccer player, competing in high school and college. He passed that love of the game on to Matt and Billy, teaching them to play and sharing countless hours watching matches together.

George loved to fish and was happiest on the water. It was where he felt most at peace. He taught Matt and Billy when they were young, passing down not just a skill but a way of life. Fishing was his way of slowing down and connecting with the people he loved.

George was loud, funny, and full of life. He had strong opinions, a big heart, and a gift for making people feel welcome. He built lasting friendships wherever he went, and he’ll be remembered with love by everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vasilis and Ralia Karavas, and by his in-laws, John and Ann Contino.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Diane; his sons, Matt (Melissa) and Billy (Carolina); his grandchildren, Athena, Matthew, Crysanthe, Ralia, Jacob, and Abby; his great-grandchild, Kailani; his younger sister, Mary Pappas Karavasili; his nephew, Dean Pappas (Vicky); and his great-nephew, Chris.

Services will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2025 with a Celebration of Life service at 1:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Services conclude at the end of the evening.

Services are under the guidance of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Flower Shop. 657 Springmart Blvd., Brownsville, Texas. (956) 350-8485

To send flowers or a plant to the family in the memory of Mr. George Karavas, please visit https://shalomflorals.com or call (956) 572-3872.