Samuel L. Gortman Sr.

Samuel Lester Gortman, Sr., affectionately known as "Poochie" or "Golfball", was born on Friday, November 19, 1954 to the late Mary Gortman and Samuel Dozier in Lexington, South Carolina. He departed this earthly life on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at 11:10pm in Columbia, South Carolina.
Samuel was raised in Leesville, South Carolina by the late Ollie Mae Sims. He graduated from Batesburg-Leesville High School. Samuel was well-known for both his humor and athletic abilities. He excelled in basketball, football, and baseball. He earned All-State Honors and played in the Shrine Bowl during his senior year of high school. Samuel declined a scholarship offer to Georgia Tech in order to be a caretaker for his mother. He worked for over twenty years at Owens Steel and later became an Environmental Specialist at Prisma Health Baptist Hospital where he worked faithfully until retirement.
Samuel was a hardworking, loveable, and easy going, "gentle giant". He greeted anyone he met with a big smile, warm hug, or a friendly kiss. His love for sports carried well over into his adult life, where he played co-ed and travel softball for many years. He enjoyed spending time at the flea market and watching the Pittsburgh Steelers play. Samuel cherished his family and was always present for his children and grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Samuel was preceded in death by his second mother, Ollie Mae Sims.
Samuel leaves to cherish his memories four children, Shaunzinski Gortman of West Columbia, SC, Olandra Lites of Batesburg, SC, Samuel (Shayla) Gortman, Jr. of Blythewood, SC and Keszia (Chris) Gortman of Elgin, SC; eleven grandchildren, Shylasia, Jazian, Chrisean, Ayanis, Sariyah, Rayana, Jeremiah, Rayshawn, Arian, Jacob, and Rhea; one brother, Nathaniel (Christine) Gortman; four sisters, Donna Dozier, Priscilla (Greg) Fields, Sheila Patterson, and Deneen Dozier; the love of his life, Betty Gortman; and a host of close family and friends who will miss him dearly.