KiKi Regas Liakonis

KiKi Regas Liakonis, age 84, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2023. KiKi was a lifelong devoted member of St. George Greek Orthodox Church, which her parents helped establish. She passionately served as Philoptochos member and president, sang in the choir, and was instrumental in the preparation and planning of Greek Fest from its inception. KiKi was an active member of Knoxville Racquet Club where she formed many life-long friendships. KiKi was a second-generation member of the Regas family. She helped create memorable guest experiences that set the tone for the high-quality, fine-dining atmosphere of Regas Restaurant. She took immense pride in making guests feel special and loved, as was evident in how her bright eyes and beautiful smile connected with all those around her. She was a stickler for quality. She lived by the motto that the details mattered. KiKi oversaw countless special celebrations as her gift was making others feel special, and no one felt this more than her beloved family that adored her so very much. She is preceded in death by her parents, George Regas and Penny Lingon Regas, brother Frank Regas, and sister-in-law Barbara Regas. She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 63 years, Nick Liakonis, who diligently cared for her in the last years of her life. She is also survived by brother Gus Regas, daughter Frankie Liakonis Nixon, son Anthony (Lori) Liakonis, and daughter Georgianne (Matt) Foster, as well as her pride and joy, her five grandchildren: Nicholas Liakonis, Cole Foster, Theo and Eleni Liakonis, and Lia Foster, as well as fur baby Oreo. She is also survived by sister-in-law Lyn Regas (Frank), nieces and nephews Michael Regas, Elizabeth McChrystal, Matt (Amanda) and Chelse Regas, great-nieces and great-nephews and many cousins. KiKi leaves behind a legacy of love and adoration for her family, friends, church and community that she served for so long through her devotion to the countless guests of Regas Restaurant. She will be dearly missed. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 10:30 – 11:45 am at St. George Greek Orthodox Church. The Funeral will follow. Family and friends will then travel in procession to Lynnhurst Cemetery for the Interment. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in KiKi’s honor to St. George Greek Orthodox Church at https://www.saintgeorgeknoxville.com/donate/. Online condolences may be made at rosefuneraltn.com.

Tributes

KiKi Regas Liakonis

September 29, 1938 - July 18, 2023