He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Abdoo Kassouf and Anica Stephen Kassouf, his sister Nadia Kassouf and his sister-in-law Ruby Kassouf. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Mary Jo Milton Kassouf, brother, Adboo Joseph Kassouf, and sister Adele (Albert) Kassouf Boohaker. He is also survived by three sons, Joseph (Vivian) Kassouf, Richard Kassouf and Michael (Kelly) Kassouf. Surviving grandchildren are Nikolas Kassouf, Alexander Kassouf, Brandon Kassouf, Kaitlyn Kassouf, and Andrew Kassouf, and a host of nieces and nephews.
He and his mother, father and siblings came to the United States on Thanksgiving Day 1956 through Ellis Island, New York and settled in Birmingham, AL a few days later. He began his career in the construction industry. He then opened A1 Coney Island with his brother and later A1 Barbecue Restaurant. He then built his own restaurant, TJ’s Barbecue, which opened in March of 1969.
He was a member of St. George Melkite Greek Catholic Church, as well as the Cedars-Phoenician Club. He enjoyed several hobbies including golf, fishing, hunting, square dancing and traveling to 37 different countries.
Visitation for TJ will be held Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 10:00am at St. George Melkite Greek Catholic Church, 425 16th Ave. South, Birmingham, AL, 35205, followed by a funeral service at 11:00am. The service will be concelebrated by Abouna Justin Rhodes of St. George Church and Abouna Peter Zogbi of St. Elias Maronite Church. Interment will be at Elmwood Ceremony following the funeral service.
We would like to thank Lakeside Hospice in Pell City, AL for their wonderful and compassionate care of our dear husband and father. We would also like to thank all the nurses and caregivers at Lakeside Hospice, especially Leigh Ann Thomas, for their care, support, and love, during this difficult time.
Donations in his memory may be made to Lakeside Hospice in Pell City or St Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
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