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1938 2026
With deep sadness and loving hearts, we announce the passing of Everett Doane Sams Jr.
Everett, age 88, took his last breath on October 24, 2026, in Leesburg, Florida, with his wife Ruth by his side and surrounded by his precious family. Everett leaves behind a lifetime of love, kindness, and cherished memories that will continue to comfort all who knew him. Everett and Ruth were married for nearly 65 years.
Everett, the youngest of six children, was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia in 1938 to the late Everett Doane Sams, Sr and Goldie Lowers Sams. Everett’s legacy includes the indelible influence he had on his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Everett had the ability to inspire others by the love he shared, love he gathered, and his outgoing personality. Everett was preceded in death by his three brothers and two sisters, Harold (Francis) Sams, Powell (Annabelle) Sams, Bill (Mary) Sams, Jo Ann (Clifford) Wilson, and Virginia (Harold) Hicks.
Stories of Everett's childhood paint a picture of resilience and adaptability. Being the youngest, he was spoiled by his big sisters. His nieces and nephews loved their Uncle Everett, because he was fun but mostly because he truly saw them for who they are. Everett naturally took on the role of protector and mentor to his nieces and nephews.
Everett graduated from Parkersburg High school in 1956. He served for three years in the United States Army, stationed in Germany for most of his tour. He was a faithful member of the Camden Avenue Church of Christ and Village Church of Christ.
Everett and Ruth spent several years serving with the Sojourning ministry, creating cherished memories along the way. Many winters were spent at Central Florida Bible Camp in Eustis, Florida, where they formed lasting friendships and enjoyed countless meaningful experiences. Everett's favorite pastimes included travel, boating, RVing, and playing pool volleyball, but mostly he cherished spending time with family and friends.
Everett’s entire family and many friends rallied around him during his final years. Special thanks go to his caregivers, Sandra and Greg Martin.
Everett is survived by his loving wife, Ruth, his daughter and son in law, Shelley & Tony Parnell of Lubbock, TX (their children, Jordan (Annie) Parnell of Lubbock, TX and Jacob Parnell, of Lubbock, TX), his son and daughter in law, Scott & Lori Sams of Suwanee, GA (their children, Victoria (Carter) Lowe of Little Rock, AR and Tyler Sams of Santa Fe, NM). Everett had five precious great grandchildren, Eisley Parnell, Everett Parnell, Beren Lowe, Baylor Lowe, and Winston Lowe. He had numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he loved dearly.
A CELEBRATION OF EVERETT'S LIFE will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at Village Church of Christ, 1421 Oak St, Lady Lake, FL 32159. VISITATION with family is 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Everett’s wish for his remains to be placed at Florida National Cemetery- Bushnell, Florida, will be honored. He will have a full military service on November 5, 2026.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to National Evangelism with Sojourners, Church of Christ Sojourner Mission, 5554 Cooks Road, Marshall, TX 75670-9130. www.sojourning.org
Arrangements entrusted to Beyers Funeral Home of Leesburg, Florida. Online condolences may be made at www.beyersfuneralhome.com.