Sam Salley

Samuel Ray Salley, a dedicated servant to his community and a faithful follower of Christ, left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. On November 29, 2023, Sam embarked on his eternal journey, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith.

Born on April 20, 1939, in the small town of Becton, Texas, Sam was the 2^nd son of Reverand Samuel Homer and Gladys Padgett Salley.

On June 14, 1959, Sam married his first love, Patricia Hoover, in Lubbock, Texas. Their union was a testament to love’s enduring power, lasting for forty-seven beautiful years until Pat’s passing in 2006. Their love story was one of unwavering devotion, marked by shared growth, joys, and a profound connection.

In 2010, Sam found love once more when he married Sandy Knight. Together, they shared thirteen precious years of companionship and happiness. Sam’s ability to open his heart to love twice in his lifetime was a testament to his capacity for kindness and compassion.

Sam was a man of many talents and passions, but perhaps his most enduring one was his commitment to serving others. He served his country as a proud member of the US Army Reserves from 1961 to 1967, demonstrating his dedication to his nation. His service extended to the Redbud Lion’s Club in Lubbock, Texas. Sam was a Texas Master Florist and member of the West Texas Florist Association and recognized as the Florist of the Year 1997.

Yet, it was within the walls of St. Matthew United Methodist Church and at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church that Sam’s true calling bloomed.  At St. Matthew, he was the choir director, organist, and pianist, as well as a member of many groups.

At St. Luke’s He was a member of the church’s Men’s group, where he found solace and purpose in his continued spiritual journey. His faith was not only a personal commitment but a guiding light that illuminated his path, influencing his every action.

Sam’s artistic talent was evident in his life’s work as a floral designer. He embarked on his career at Baldwin’s Floral and later took the reins of Town South Floral, where he continued to craft beautiful floral arrangements for a total of forty-four years before retirement. His creations were not just arrangements of flowers but expressions of love, joy, and celebration in the lives and events of so many here in Lubbock and West Texas. Sam finished his working days at Grand Central Station Antiques with another wonderful group of folks that allowed him to stay creative, inspired and continue to share all types of beautiful things with his friends and customers.

Sam leaves behind a legacy of love in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him. He is survived by his loving wife of thirteen years, Sandy Knight, who brought light and happiness into his life. He also leaves behind his children, Brad Salley and his wife, Kathy, and Alisa, and Michael Rogers and his daughter, Danielle, who will forever cherish the lessons of love, kindness, and service that he imparted.

Sam’s love extended to his grandchildren, Taylor, and Tori Salley, who were the apple of his eye. He was not only a grandfather but a mentor, teaching them the values of faith and compassion that he held dear.

In the Salley family, faith was not just a word but a way of life, as evidenced by Sam’s surviving brother, Reverend Henry Salley, and his wife, Mary, as well as his sister-in-law Debra Salley, and Jennifer, his favorite niece. Sam’s faith journey was shared with those he held dear, and it became a cornerstone of his family’s legacy.

Sam was preceded in death by his Parents, his brother Melvin, and his little sister, Ellie Lee.

Sam sends a big thank you to all of his former choir members, musical partners, floral staff and colleagues, and his many wonderful customers over the years.

As we gather to remember Sam Salley’s life, we celebrate not only an extraordinary family man but the love, faith, and service that defined him.

Together, let us remember Sam Salley, a man of unwavering faith and boundless love, whose legacy will continue to inspire us all.

Please do not hesitate to send flowers for Sam or any loved one and support your local florist for all occasions.

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