Samuel Lewis Duff

Samuel Lewis Duff, 84 of Houston passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, April 26. Sam was born October 12, 1926 in Lebanon, VA to Joseph Eugene and Sara Ayers Duff. He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister Mary Catherine Anderson. Sam is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Betty Jane (Todd) Duff, his children, Samuel Lewis Duff, Jr., Sue Carroll Duff & husband, Tom, Charles Todd Duff & wife Celia, Joseph William Duff & wife Melissa; 7 grandchildren, Stephanie, Daniel, Jessica, Chad, Emily, Laura and Alexia; and his brother Joseph Eugene Duff, Jr. Sam was a loving husband and dedicated father serving as a rock in the lives of his wife and children. He will be greatly missed by all members of his family and friends. Sam grew up in Lebanon, VA. He would always refer to his childhood home as God’s country. Sam attended Virginia Military Institute (VMI) prior to being called into service in 1942. He was a decorated veteran for his service as a medic in the 47th infantry division of the US Army in the European theater in WWII and served in several major campaigns in France, Belgium and Germany. Sam graduated from Emory and Henry University when he returned from the war. He met the love of his life, Betty and they were married in March 1951. They lived in several places before moving and settling in Houston in the summer of 1962 to raise their 4 children and become long time neighbors. Sam retired from American Cyanamid as a sales executive in the chemical industry. He loved being active in his children’s sports and other endeavors and volunteered many hours couching little league. He was a charter member of Memorial Drive United Methodist Church and attended The Probers bible study class. A person’s success in life is often judged by the number of friends and the love and respect of his family at the time of his death. Sam was the most successful man that ever lived. A Memorial Service to honor and celebrate Sam’s life will be held, Monday, May 2, 2011 at 2:00 PM at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, 12955 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77079 with The Reverend James H. McPhail officiating. A reception will follow the service at the church. In addition to the customary remembrances please consider memorial contributions to the Caring Forever Foundation at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church.

Samuel Lewis Duff

October 12, 1926 - April 26, 2011