I loved him...what a dear man. I'm so sorry Grady...

Carol, Sharon and Grady: I wanted so much to see you last week. It has been a while. Thoughts of your dad conjure up so much: our kids playing ball together years ago; us in the neighborhood years and years ago; and later, the pleasure of seeing your dad. No matter what, he would make you feel better. He would say, "I'm proud of you" and, "You're top-shelf." Bill will always be "Top-shelf."

Bill Regas was always a two generational friend to me and my family.  In November of 1979 - my fiancé and I went to the restaurant for a late dinner after a special occasion. It is memorable because I had called Bill prior - and upon arrival he met us at the Hostess table.  Once seated, Bill came to our table followed by a waitress who was carting 2 glasses of wine (Bill was carrying his 3rd glass).   Our glasses were correctly handed out And after a little talk I proposed to Sherry, my fiancé - with Bill at the table. (Her glass had the ring i slipped to him when we entered the restaurant in it.).  We were married 2 months later and remain so to this day.  What was also a special part of our experience was that Bill sat at the table through the whole time.  What I never found out however, was whose bottle he used to fill his glass. Great fun - he is truly missed. 

As I thought about the words that would convey to the family what Mr. Regas represented to me, one phrase kept coming up "In God We Trust". Isn't that what he did during his remarkable life? He trusted God during the marvelous good times and the devastating hard times. From the stories shared by family and friends, Mr. Regas knew and lived those words. May we all live our life with a faith so strong that "In God We Trust" is always apparent in our action and words. It was a true honor to have known such a remarkable servant of our Lord and Savior.

Bill left a legacy, one of excellence both in his work and in his personal relationships. I always felt important to him no matter who was around, and I believed that he wanted to have the best experience he could in the present moment not only for himself, but for everyone around him. He brought this with him everywhere he went, and he was always the source of a smile when he entered the room. I aspire every day to model Bill this way with the people around me, because it is a rare gift. He brought so much joy and wonderful memories to so many I know. I will miss him.

I moved to TN to pursue a Masters degree at UT and, towards the end of 1982, a girl I had been seeing invited me to be her date at a wedding rehearsal dinner held in one of the Regas banquet rooms. I had never been to Regas before and the food was the best meal I had EVER eaten. I raved about my experience and was blown away by the service and atmosphere. While at the dinner, I had heard that the Regas people were going to open up a casual dining concept called Grady's Good Times and they would be starting to interview tomorrow! I arrived bright and early the next morning and there was a line to apply. I had a good amount of experience bartending/serving and I was the 4th person hired and the first person moved into management as the concept expanded. As many know, Grady's was a huge success! Bill Regas was a huge mentor to me and always shared how "proud" he was. I have been with Grady's and the Chop House for almost 40 years. I see it as a "God thing", as this dinner at Regas ultimately led me to a prosperous career and to my wife, Cindy (whom I met at Gradys---she was the 27th person hired).

I felt so blessed to be present for the service this evening. The speeches from the family were all heart-stirring. I loved how they were all faith-based. I just KNOW Poppy is so proud of the legacy he has left. I have to say the hospitality in heaven has stepped up significantly (if that is even possible)...certainly Bill's engaging, friendly smile is now impacting many in heaven and will for eternity. I look forward to seeing him again some day. I am going to place the program for today's celebration of life in my Bible to remind me of what a great God-loving man Bill was and an example to follow.

This gentleman was a joy to work with.
Such a gentleman, so kind, and such a roll model. They just don’t make them like him anymore.

Thank you Bill for helping me set higher standards in my life and have thought of you often over the years.

Bill,
You always said "I'm proud of you" in the most loving and heartfelt way. Well Bill, I'm proud to have your memories stored safely in my heart. Angie and I love you.

Angie and Jeff

Bill has been a source of encouragement and support in all the time I have known him.  Never do I remember anything other than a smile, a positive word, and his often adding "say hello to Carol for me".  I loved being with him in our Saturday Bible Study, and in any other place we saw each other.  I will miss him very much. 

Knoxville won’t be the same without Bill Regas. He had an incredible gift for connecting with people. His passion for hospitality and attention to detail positively impacted everyone he came in contact with. Bill Regas’ influence will continue to felt in East Tennessee for years to come.

My husband, Jack, and I consulted with Regas Restaurant in the mid 90’s and got to know Bill very well. He was a man who followed the Lord and lived his life as a disciple of Jesus Christ. He was someone who you could depend on and we had the opportunity to work at Regas. I remember his hugs and the smile he would give to everyone. He was a true gentleman. I would like to share a poem:

A Limb Has Fallen

A limb has fallen from the family tree
I keep hearing a voice saying, “Don’t grieve for me.”
Remember the best times, the laughter, the song,
The good life lived while I was strong.
Continue my heritage, I’m counting on you,
Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through.
My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest.
Remembering all, now I truly was blessed
Continue traditions, no matter how small.
Go on with your life, don’t just stare at the wall.
I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin,
Until the day comes we’re together again.

May God bless All of Bill’s family.

Love, Jack and Connie Vincent❤️❤️❤️

It’s a sad time on earth losing such an icon with a Godly heart. However, I know Poppy is beaming with true Joy as he has entered into the presence of our precious Jesus. That should be the ultimate goal for us all as this life is so swift and temporary. Heaven gained a wonderful servant in Poppy. I know he is hearing, “well done my good and faithful servant.” What a sweet pleasure and honor to have known you, Bill Regas (Poppy) and to have heard some of your great stories. What a great storyteller! Now you have even more amazing stories to share. Can’t wait to see you again, my Daddy, my Nana, grandparents, and my Uncle Jim. Tell them hello for me and until we all meet again, sweet Poppy.......To our Precious God be the Glory in ALL....Love you, Sara❤️

From Mary Ann (Maples) Pickard

Bill and Elizabeth Regas were one of the godly couples I looked up to as I was growing up in First Baptist Church, Knoxville. Their sweet marriage was a testimony of their love of Jesus.

While I cannot speak to his later years, I can share a sweet memory of the way he "bent over backwards" to help me host a dinner at Regas Restaurant when I was on the UT Homecoming Advisory Board. There were a lot of laughs exchanged in working out all the "kinks" in the preparation, and he was gracious, patient and honoring. I am grateful for the impact his family had on me!

From Jannice Grissom Clark

Many years ago I was the recipient of the Regas scholarship when I graduated from Fulton High School. To say that the money was greatly needed is a profound understatement. Bill Regas was overly generous and the only thing he asked of me was to use my talents and to help others along the way. He would contact me occasionally just to check in and regularly invited me to dine at Regas. I’ve just retired after 38 years teaching math in Knox County Schools; I believe he felt the scholarship money was well spent. I will always remember the Regas's generosity and want all of you yo know that I took Bill’s advice and have paid it forward. Sincere condolences to the family on the passing of a truly wonderful man.

Bill was always proud of the Regas “Red Velvet Cake”. So many guests came is often requesting that dessert for occasions.
In honor of The Chairman, Connors Steak & Seafood will be serving “Red Velvet Cake” this weekend.
I just wish I could have him give me his taste approval.

I only met Mr. Regas a few years ago at the gym we went to. He always had a smile or a nice thing to say. Either one made you feel better about yourself. He will be missed by many.

For any of us who were lucky enough to have Poppy/ the Chairman as a friend and mentor in our lives were positively changed from our relationship with him. Peggy and I know the trajectory of our professional career was greatly enhanced by the many experiences shared with Poppy. However, more importantly, Poppy was THE ROLE MODEL for how life should be lived. Family First, Faith, Community and a passion for Excellence all come to top of mind when describing Poppy. Poppy had the unique ability to use a positive word (“my buttons are busting I am so proud of you”) to create relationships where you never wanted to let him down. He was an awesome man, friend and mentor and will surely be missed by Peggy, me and many others!

Bill was one of the most genuine, warm and friendly person that I have met in my life. I feel privileged to have been his neighbor the last few years and will always appreciate his way of making you feel as if you had known him all your life! The Regas was a special occasion restaurant my wife and I, and we have fond memories from many years ago. We are saddened by his loss, but knowing he is with the Lord will hopefully give comfort to his family and many, many friends.

What a perfect gentleman and friend. When we had our offices at the old Southern Railroad Station across the street from Regas, we always had to have lunch across the street at the brothers restaurant. We were always proud to take clients from around the world to lunch there and knowing that Bill would be there and welcome us all to lunch .Bill and I designed the new Gay Street bridge to look appropriate for the area and developed a masterplan for the area " north of the tracks" which is now a reality. His wonderful broiled scrod can now be served in heaven.

I like to send a special message to all the Regas family & with a special salute to Bill in a celebration of life.  There is countless accomplishments & deeds that mark Bill’s life to many to list, but nearly everyone knows most of them. There is one thing I like to share that was always special to me that reflects deep into Bill’s core thinking. Every time we spoke he was always interested in speaking to me about family & what a family can accomplish with a vision, hard work & organization in business. Just like Bill. my Parents too always shared those values.  Our families shared Greek roots that embrace close family ties and a perseverance of excellence in every level, especially revolved around the hospitality business,. Bill achieved a epic & legendary status level thru his life’s work. Bill you been a special person to us all - may your memory be eternal.

Bill Regas was a family friend for many years. Our whole family have such fond memories of Bill and his family- remembering going to the downtown restaurant after church on Sunday, seeing Bill as you walked in the door, asking how many, grabbing the menus and seating us to have a yummy Sunday lunch! Oh, can’t forget peering over to the plexiglass covered meal on the cart as you were guided back to your table…wish I knew where that was today, I bet it would look exactly the same. I remember the terrestrial sp? Specially floors in the entry way. This was when the door faced Gay st., before the last big remodel. Anyway- he was always so excited to meet people and focused so much on making everyone feel special. Another time I had some business associates in town. The lady who worked with had flown in from Charlotte, and the first thing she told me after picking her up at the airport, she wanted to go to that place called Regas! So, I said no worries, we can make that happen, although I was living in Nashville at the time and had to drive back after dinner that night. Well, we went, and sat down next to a big round table, where Mr Regas was with 8 of his other friends. I didn’t say anything. We were seated at a booth with the thermostat right above my head. Just a few minutes into our meal, a man walked up reached over and changed the temp, that was the perfect opportunity to have the chance to introduce Bill, the owner to my co-art. She had a big smile on her face and we both enjoyed our evening! One other time I’ll never forget was when my dad took me to lunch there on my 16th Bday! And I’m sure many others have fond memories of Regas but all what The Bill Regas family did to make an exceptional experience. Bill had it in him to do that and later in years I had the honor to be with him in a Bible study. It was then I truly saw the sincerity and in the love for the Lord. When he spoke or answered any questions it was so rich and meaningful. All I can say, he was an incredible man and glad to crossed paths throughout my life. Rest In Peace Bill. You were loved by many.

There is old phrase that the truest measure of someone's life are the friends that are left behind. In the case of Poppy, this is a huge understatement as he has hundreds of them that would call him a friend. He was a mentor and inspiration to me as I worked on establishing a new business. Even though he had plenty of day-to-day pressures of running a large family business along with Grady's, he always took the time to meet with me or take a call to share his advice and counsel. Like each of us, when he spoke to you, he gave you his complete attention as if there was no one else in the room. He meant so much to me. Even though we could go a time without speaking we could always take up where we left off.  The Regas family and the Balloff family have always been active in the community to make life better, maybe it was because they were children of immigrants (both businesses started in 1919) Poppy set a good example for all us, gratefulness, kindness, giving back and helping others. I am sure he helped many that we will never know. He certainly instilled this with Grady, Carol and Sharon, along with his grandchildren. What a legacy to leave behind. Poppy, I am another who is proud to say your leave behind a good friend, knowing you have made me a better man. I would totally describe you as a Mensch, as someone to admire and emulate and someone of moral character.  This is a perfect description of your life. May you rest in peace.

21 years ago i met Bill and Grady both at Riverside Tavern, i was starting my long career in which im still employed with at Lakeside Tavern. I learned alot from both of them and have held on to the mission, vision, and values to this day. They taught “celebrate” instead of work! I will miss him dearly.

I have Known Bill since the mid 1960s when I began coaching his children in swimming. He dearly loved his children and as they became highly successful as swimmers , all city champions, he treated me royally. As I grew older I learned Bill treated everyone he met royally. He was a master at names , faces, and facts about everyone he met , and this trait endeared him to me and so many others. You always felt special in his presence. He was a force in his industry and his legacy will not be forgotten by any who knew him.

I am very saddened and sorry to hear about Bill Regas' passing. My Grandparents, the late Jacob and Sarah Green along with my great aunt and uncle, the late Ike and Dora Green owned and operated Green's Hardware across the street from the restaurant. I recall the Regas had a special salad for my grandmother Sarah, the Mrs. Green special . I was at Regas on a number of occasions and often had lunches and dinners there while visiting Knoxville. I really enjoyed many meals there and was sorry to hear that the restaurant closed, but the memories never went away. I met Mr. Regas a number of times and he was always very nice. My condolences to his family on his passing and may his memory always be a blessing. 

I had the pleasure of getting to know Poppy just a little bit when I lived with the Scotts 12 years ago and again when I was back in Charlottesville with my family in 2019. I could never forget you warm smile and hugs. His legacy will live on through your family, who are some of the most wonderful people I have ever known. I'm especially thankful for raising such a beautiful, godly daughter in Sharon. Praying for you all as you grieve and celebrate his life. 

Hal's Proverbs Class will not be the same without "Mr. Bill"... I am going to Miss Him...

I remember going to Regas Restaurant during my years as a student at UT in the early 70's. Always great food and wonderful atmosphere. My wife and I would stop there sometimes on our trips up to Washington & Lee. Was Still a great treat as always. A true legend!
Dan J. Hackett

My Grandfather Coulter (Coulter Coal Company) would take our family to dinner every other Sunday to Regas. I always ordered the same thing, fried shrimp. It was delicious. And I remember this very impressive, gracious man enveloping my small hand in one of his large ones, looking me in the eye and greeting me. After I grew up and went away, every time I would come back for special occasions, most notably Easter and Mother’s Day, I would take my family to Regas. And order fried shrimp. And it was always perfect. And there was that same eternally handsome, great man waiting to greet our entire family as we walked in. We have lost an icon who should still be around to teach these young arrogant restaurantours what Bill and his family always knew. The restaurant belongs to its clients, not the other way around. Rest in peace, old friend.

I never met him, but his restaurant holds memories for me. It was always the best place to celebrate anything and everything! My first memories were my parents who were married for 59 years until my dad’s passing last year, when they would tell the story of dates there. They only dated a few months in 1961, but Regas was their favorite. They loved ham and sweets-baked ham and sweet potatoes!

A great mentor, friend, and client. Bill ("Poppy") was a generous, selfless man who always made everyone around him feel better, with a gentle smile, a kind comment, and a pat on the shoulder. He was one of the most intuitive people I've ever met and a great businessman, but what I remember most is how he treasured his family. I shall miss him. Prayers for Grady and the family.

Bill Regas, aka the chairman, was the standard for all restaurateurs at any level.  He was the proverbial gentleman always! He knew his guests by name and when he met a new guest he committed their face and name to memory.
This is a quality of his I have aspired to adopt.

He cared so much for his family, friends, guests, and his employees. Bill was always able to stay in control regardless of the situation. I can honestly say I don’t believe I ever saw him angry. Oh sure I saw him disappointed, disturbed, and displeased, but always under control.

As I count the people who have had the greatest influence on my life and my success besides my wife and my mother, Bill Regas gets the credit. As far as an influence in the industry, he has no equal.

Years from now when Knoxvillians reflect on the past leaders of the restaurant industry over the 100+ years there is no doubt in my mind the The Chairman will be at the top!

Rest In Peace

Your kindness to me I will never forget. You welcomed me simply because my name was George and I reminded you of your brother. Thank you and Grady for treating me like family. See ya in heaven Poppy!

Bill was a phenomenal mentor/friend to me in my career and in life. Always soft spoken and kind/encouraging words...he always went out of his way to ask about others he has met in my family and always remembered their names. A special highlight for any guest of the Regas dining experience, aside from the amazing food, service, atmosphere, was the special table visit everyone looked forward to from the "Chairman"...Bill Regas.

Such a sweet kind gentleman! I always loved seeing his smiling face walking with family up and down Rustling Oaks Thinking of you all daily and sending love. 

Bill I feel so blessed to be part of your extended family. I have alway enjoyed our times together. I don’t know anyone who is so devoted to his family, such a role model and leader!! Always there for all the events. Your southern gentleman style and soft spoken kind words will always be with me. God Bless my friend. Smiles.

Bill what can I say what others before me have said, God brought us a kind gracious person who made us special when our paths crossed. Bill, thank you for bringing Sharon to the Scott side, the apple does not fall far from the tree. Bill, it was always pleasure to see when your grandbabies got married. You were a joy to be around. Bill God Bless you.

Bill was the epitome of a Southern Gentleman and I had the wonderful opportunity to meet him at Sharon and Stuart's wedding. When you talk with Bill, his sparkling blue eyes, he made you feel you were the only person in the room. His love and laughter filled our hearts with joy. It was always a pleasure to be in his presents.
Bill, you will be missed by all whose lives you touched and live in their hearts forever. God Bless you Bill.

Friends in heart for life.
And friends after life.
King

Christian, Gentleman, and Friend. 
A great, great model for any man!

I wrote this for Bill's 90th Birthday album two years ago, but now I would like to share it with others as it sums up so much for me and Bill.
"I have known Bill Regas every day of my life!
First, I heard about him through my Grandparents but, most especially, through my father and his sisters. I knew Bill was a prominent businessman but more importantly that Bill was a gentleman and a man of his word. One special--and very true--Carter family story is how my father, John Carter, and Bill wrote a 40 year lease on a cocktail napkin while at Regas Restaurant!! I was groomed to manage the family's businesses, and this is when I personally came to know Bill Regas for myself. And what an honor!
There arose an opportunity for my family to sell the land Bill had leased for so many years, and one more time, Bill made a contractual agreement practically on another cocktail napkin, but more importantly with Bill's word and his handshake. And because it was Bill Regas, the agreement was imminently fair to both parties. I witnessed for myself the heart of this wonderful man...true to his Lord, true to his businesses, and true to those around him!
I have never in my 72 years heard Bill utter a negative word or comment; he always has had an encouraging or complimentary word to offer. 
Bill Regas always thinks of other people, no matter what is going on with him. And he always takes time to be with and to help others, and again no matter what is going on with him. He has given many a young person a gentle and quiet assist, and what a legacy that is!
God has blessed me to allow me time on this earth with Bill Regas. But God has richly blessed me to know Bill and to love Bill and to know Bill's love in return! For this, I shall always be thankful and grateful.
Happy 90th Birthday, my dear friend. I love you deeply.
Diana Carter Samples"
With the recent news of Bill being in hospice care, Bob and I know the end of his journey on this earth is nearing its end. And even though we are secure in the knowledge of Bill's upcoming resurrection, we are greatly saddened as this earth will not be as kind a place without Bill in it. And we shall miss this wonderful man and our long time friendship. Go in peace, dear one.
Much love, Diana and Bob Samples

I'm so sorry to hear that Bill's health is deteriorating. He is such a fine, fine gentleman. I've enjoyed getting to know him through the Men's Bible Study on Saturday mornings. We have missed his presence there. When you talked with Bill he always made you feel that he wasn't interested in anything but what you had to say. One of the nicest men I have ever met. I especially enjoyed seeing the pictures of him and his parents when he was a child. I pray that he will be comfortable during his remaining days. It has been an honor to know him.

You are one of the best friends and role models that I have ever known. Thank you for showing us how it's done! You are truly one of a kind. All of our best! We love you very much Poppy!