Samuel Rodriquez Celaya

Samuel “Sammy” Rodriquez Celaya, a proud Vietnam veteran and a hardworking, generous, and beautifully passionate soul, was welcomed into Heaven on March 20, 2026, where he reunited with his mother, father, sister, brother, and an abundance of cherished friends.

Sam—or “Sammy” to his family—began life in the desert copper mining town of Ajo, Arizona, where he was born on January 10, 1947, to Henriqueta (Rodriquez) and Rodrigo Celaya. He graduated from Ajo High School and, shortly thereafter, enlisted into the United States Army, proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War.

After returning home, Sam went to work in the Phelps Dodge copper mines in Ajo, beginning what would be a lifelong commitment to hard work and providing for his family. In 1982, Sam relocated to Boca Raton, Florida, joining his Uncle Norman. There, he spent most of his career with the City of Boca Raton Parks and Recreation Department, starting in an entry level role and working his way up through the ranks. Florida would remain his home for the rest of his life.
Sam was a friend to many and a man who would give his last cent to help someone in need. He possessed a generous heart, a sharp wit, and a snarky sense of humor that kept those around him laughing. He loved music, was an avid golfer, and an exceptional guitar player. Some of his happiest moments were spent jamming with his brothers, belting out the Mexican music they grew up listening to.

Despite aching knees, ankles, and a bad back—often supported by braces—Sam could still be found on the golf course with his son in law Rob, simply for the joy of the game. Though a man of modest means, he worked tirelessly to give his children experiences beyond their everyday world: attending golf and tennis tournaments, spring training baseball games, and anything sports related. He would rent a car and book a room at the Gator Motel in Orlando just so he could bring the magic of Disney to his kids. He ended his phone calls with his kids telling them how proud he was of them.

A proud Vietnam veteran, Sam made sure his children marched in recognition of Vietnam Veterans and remained a steadfast supporter of his fellow servicemen throughout his life.

Sam is survived by his loving wife and partner of 45 years, Joyce; his children Erika (Dave) Brightwell, Stacy (Tom) Griffin, Samuel “Sammy” Celaya Jr., Kathrina (Robert) Gosselin, and David (Tana) Mankus; and his 14 cherished grandchildren: Logan and Alexis Wade; Alec and Brooke Griffin; Samuel and Jasmine Celaya; Robert and Rachel Gosselin; Seath and Zane Brightwell; and Madison, Samantha, Julia, and Braxton Mankus.

He is also survived by his beloved brothers Manuel “Welo” (Nora) Celaya, Roger (Tessie) Celaya, Dector (Margaret) Celaya, his best friend, Walt (Gayle) Schroeder, and many nieces and nephews.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents; his sister and brother-in-law Delfina and Ed Trujillo; and his brother and sister-in-law Rogelio and Olga Celaya.

Service details will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sam’s honor to two organizations that support veterans:
• The Gary Sinise Foundation – https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate
• K9s For Warriors – https://k9sforwarriors.org