Miriam Makris

Miriam Makris of Pine Bluff passed away in her sleep at her home on January 21, 2015. She had struggled for four years after having a stroke. She had a full, wonderful life of 90 years. Miriam was born in Dermott, Arkansas on April 25, 1924, to Paul and Thelma Jones. She grew up in Smackover, Arkansas and attended Smackover High School where she began her teaching career after attending Ouachita Baptist University and receiving a BA in Speech and English from Baylor University in 1946. She moved to Pine Bluff, Arkansas in 1948, and taught various English and literature courses at Pine Bluff High School. After 27 years at Pine Bluff High, she returned to get a Master's degree in counseling from Arkansas State Teachers College of Arkansas. She later became a counselor at Belair and Dial Junior High Schools. Miriam always believed that the most important job in the world was that of a teacher, and she was always proud to see her former students succeed in their lives. She married George A. Makris, Sr. in 1955. They had three children - George A. Makris, Jr. (wife Debbie), Andrea Makris Gary (husband Jim), and Paul Makris (wife Kristy). Her biggest joy was her six grandchildren, Miriam Gary, George Makris III, Nicholas Makris and his wife, Lindsay, John Makris, Maggie Makris, and Zack Makris, and her great grandchild, Nicholas. She said the best thing about grandchildren is that she could spoil them rotten, then give them back. She did a fine job of that. Her love of family included a close-knit group of friends and in-laws. She loved to laugh, sing, eat, and celebrate with her "birthday group", and the love and fellowship of her extended family. Miriam was a long-time member of Trinity Episcopal Church where she was a member of the St. Elizabeth's Guild. She served as President of the Junior Sesame Club and was a Board member of The Elliot Foundation. If she were able, she would thank the wonderful caregivers she had over the last four years for their kindness, patience and compassion. She would also thank the doctors who helped her, and her friends who came to visit and encourage her. Services are 1:30 p.m., Saturday, January 24th at Trinity Episcopal Church with the Reverend Dr. Walter Van Zandt Windsor officiating. Interment follows in Graceland Cemetery. The family will receive friends at 904 West 44th in Pine Bluff from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday. Your thoughtful gifts may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, 703 West Third, Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71601 in lieu of flowers. Online register: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.