Home / Arts and Entertainment / Iconic Photojournalist John Coutlakis Dies at 65
Iconic Photojournalist John Coutlakis Dies at 65
6 Dec, 2025
Summary
- He captured humanity in Western North Carolina for 21 years.
- His powerful photo of a burning apartment rescue became iconic.
- A gifted writer and musician, he was also a devoted friend.
John Coutlakis, a cherished photographer for the Asheville Citizen Times and a native of Asheville, has died at the age of 65. He passed away peacefully at his childhood home on December 5th. For over two decades, from 1993 to 2014, Coutlakis captured the essence of Western North Carolina, earning accolades for his diverse photojournalism skills.
His career was marked by an unwavering dedication to his craft and the region's people. Among his most memorable works is the harrowing 1994 photograph of a woman escaping a burning apartment, an image that deeply affected him and highlighted the fragility of life. This powerful image, along with others, showcased his ability to convey profound human emotion through his lens.
Beyond his photographic achievements, Coutlakis was a gifted writer, a composer of classical piano music, and a cherished friend. He was known for his deep intellect, his passion for storytelling, and his unique ability to connect with people, leaving an indelible mark on his community and the world of photojournalism.
