Samuel Edward Williams, 80, of Dunbar, passed from this earthly realm on Saturday, March 12, 2022, at Stonerise, in Charleston, after an extended illness.

He was born in St. Albans (Amandaville) on November 16, 1941, to James Edward and Rhoda (Allen) Williams, the eldest son of four siblings.

Sam attended and graduated from St. Albans High School in 1960. On December 2, 1961, he married his high school "sweetheart", Mary Helen Lipscomb. Their union began with their first-born, Kimberly; but three additions would soon be added to form the "Williams Crew".

After graduation, he began working for a brief period at the FMC Ordinance Park. From there he made a career move to be employed as a licensed tankerman for Union Carbide. This company would change owners, periodically. Nevertheless, Sam remained steadfast, and faithful in this position, and retired from Bayer after 34 years of service.

Retirement didn't last very long because "Mr. Sam" had countless young lives to inspire, uplift, and encourage, when he accepted the position of after-school tutor/bus driver, at the K.I.S.R.A. Enrichment Center. So many adults and children were influenced by this mild-mannered soul, who always greeted you with a smile and encouraging words of wisdom.

Anyone who knew him, knew he was a "Jack of All Trades"! Whatever Sam put his mind to, he accomplished. He once took an upholstery class at Shawnee Community Center, and from that class, opened up his own upholstery business, (Williams Upholstery), which flourished for ten long years, all while still maintaining a full-time job. Sam was a master designer, carpenter, painter, agriculturalist, and "chef". He loved working with his hands and building things, great or small. We watched him design and single-handedly, (with the help of a few friends) build the new addition that is connected to our family's original home.

Sam was an amazingly loving, and generous family man, who took excellent care of his family, and any other children in the area and surrounding neighborhood. Fishing was one of his favorite pastimes or sitting for countless hours with a Sudoku book. He often took fishing trips with his buddies, or would spend time with his children or grandchildren, teaching them the art of fishing.

He was also an avid WVU "fanatic"! You could be certain to find Sam and his best buddy, Philip Heyliger, watching every game in tandem, while talking on the phone. Make no mistake, they were not just watching, they were coaching, calling plays and refereeing. It was a running joke that Philip always struggled with knowing in advance what had occurred before Sam due to the broadcast delay in West Virginia versus Alabama. He often slipped up and let the cat out of the bag only to have him ask, "WHAT???"!

Sam was a member of Ferguson Memorial Baptist Church, and faithful member of the Usher Board. Everyone loved his infectious smile, firm handshake, or warm hug. He always had a kind word and loved to make people smile.

He never met a stranger. Sam could speak to the very young, as well as those who were well-seasoned. His "word" was his bond. If he promised it---it was as good as "Done"! God has truly gained a soldier---A Mighty Man of Valor---A Workman for the Vineyard!

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his eldest sister, Delores Williams, and his baby sister, Vel Jean Williams.

Left to cherish Sam's memory is his loving wife of 60 years, Mary Helen (Lipscomb); his children: Kimberly Boxley, Tonya Heyliger (Emanuel), Crystal Williams, and Travis Williams (Michellina); his brother, Norvel L. Williams; his grandchildren, Paris, Imani, Colin, and Kaiden; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, March 19, at Ferguson Memorial Baptist Church, Dunbar. Burial will follow in Grandview Memorial Park, Dunbar.

Friends may visit one hour prior to the service at the Church.

Arrangements are in the care of Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.