Tula Priskos

Tula Priskos, a beloved mother, grandmother, and pillar of strength, passed away on August 26, 2024, just three days shy of her 80th birthday. Born on August 29, 1944, in Evia, Greece. Tula was the cherished daughter of Kostadeno and Melio Prantzikos. Her journey was marked by love, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to her family.

In 1960, Tula married the love of her life, Chris Priskos, after meeting him while picking olives in their homeland. Their love story blossomed, leading them to embark on a new life together in the United States. In 1966, with two young children and another on the way, Tula and Chris bravely immigrated to America, despite not knowing how to read or speak English. They arrived in New York, only to be met by an airline strike that forced them to travel by train to Utah, where they were welcomed by Chris’s brother, Stephano, and his wife, Billy. Through perseverance and hard work, Tula and Chris purchased their first home within nine months of their arrival.

Tula’s work ethic was unmatched. She held multiple jobs, including child care, working at the Highway House restaurant, and sewing at Pykettes Clothing. In 1981, Tula and Chris opened their own business, the Royal Eatery, in downtown Salt Lake City, where she worked tirelessly until her retirement in 2014. Tula’s dedication extended beyond her family and work; she was a proud member of the Greek Orthodox Church and found joy in trips to Wendover with her friends on the church’s fun bus.

Tula was a woman of remarkable strength, both in spirit and character. She was known for her comforting presence, infectious positivity, and quick wit. Her culinary skills were exceptional, and her hospitality made everyone feel welcome in her home. Tula’s hands moved with grace and steadiness, whether she was cooking a meal or offering comfort to those in need. Her beauty, warmth, and stoicism were admired by all who knew her.

Tula’s legacy lives on in her surviving children: her daughter Tessie; son Deno(Tanya); and daughter, best friend, and caregiver Stephanie (Destry). She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Robbie, Christian(Ali), Nico(Despina), Xander, Telly, Demetria, Kosta, Lucas, Tia, and Milo. Tula was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, husband Chris, children Vasilios and Melanie, and grandchild Jorge.

Tula Priskos was loved deeply and will be missed more than words can express. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A viewing will be held on Friday August 30, 2024 at 10:00a.m. and funeral services following at 11:00a.m. at Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church. Interment will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donating to the Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.org for more information, or the Greek Orthodox Church of Greater Salt Lake.

May her memory be eternal.