Sam Galanti

GALANTI, Sam

Sam Rabeno Galanti, a beloved husband, father, grandfather (Papou), brother and friend to so many, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones, on April 15, 2025. He was 94 years old.

Born on January 26, 1931, in Atlanta, Georgia, Sam was the youngest child of Louisa and Rabeno Galanti. A lifelong member of Congregation Or VeShalom, Sam's Jewish faith and devotion to family were central to his life and identity.

In 1955, Sam married the love of his life, Ann Friedman Galanti. Together, they built a warm and loving home, rich in laughter, traditions, and cherished family stories. They shared 67 wonderful years of marriage.

A native Atlantan, Sam graduated from Boys High and served proudly as a Corporal in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was a successful independent grocer and businessman, working in a lifelong and trusted partnership with his three brothers. Together, they owned and operated four stores in greater Atlanta including Blair Thrift Town in Canton, Georgia. Known affectionately as "Little Smokey," Sam was an avid poker player who delighted in the games, camaraderie, and stories shared with his card-playing friends—many of whom he considered extended family.

Sam found his greatest joy in his large and loving family, his close-knit Sephardic community, and his role as Papou to his grandchildren. He believed deeply in giving back, especially to his kehillah, Or Ve Shalom which he credited with enriching and strengthening his life.

A dedicated Rotarian for over 45 years, Sam served as President of the Rotary Club of Canton and was widely admired for his leadership, warmth, and generosity. He was a Paul Harris Fellow, a Rotary Foundation Benefactor, and the first recipient of the Col. Carlisle N. Coxe Rotarian of the Year Award—an honor that now bears his name. For 26 consecutive years, Sam and Ann opened their home as a host family to international college students through the Georgia Rotary Student Program, sharing their hospitality, wisdom, and love with students from around the world.

Sam was predeceased by his parents, Louisa and Rabeno Galanti; his loving wife, Ann Friedman Galanti; and his siblings: Benny Galanti, Isaac Galanti, Regina and Melvin Cohen, Morris and Rachel Galanti, Bernie and Barbara Friedman, and Nat and Rheta Okun.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and humor. He is survived by his six children: Richard (Barrie) of Seattle, Helene (Stuart) of Atlanta, and Louisa (Mark) of St Petersburg; and by his ten grandchildren: Sam, Jonathan (Stephanie), Anna (Tyler), Oliver, Peninah, Ilene, Samuel, and Rachel. He is also survived by countless cousins; nieces; nephews; and extended family who cherished him deeply.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his devoted caregivers—Marvalyn, Ashanti, Rose, Nadine and Nathan—who always cared for Sam with compassion, dignity, and love.

Sam was known for his sharp mind, generous heart, and the way he brought people together through his love, caring and warmth. His story doesn't end here—it lives on in all of us, L'Dor V'Dor.

Funeral services will be held at Greenwood Cemetery, 1173 Cascade Circle SW, Atlanta on Friday, April 18 at 10:30 aAM.