Jerry "Napoleon XIV" Samuels

When I was a rec therapist at Waverly Heights, I worked with Jerry for about five years, as he helped schedule all of my entertainment. I've just found out that he passed away, and I'm so sorry to hear this news. Condolences to Jerry's family. He was a friend and such a character! I think of him fondly!

Our sincere condolences to Sylvia and family from Uitenhage south Africa

As a young teenager in 1966, I used to sit with my transistor radio and wait until Miami's WQAM would play "They´re Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa!"...

As I recall, they'd *never* introduce it. All of a sudden, the previous record would fade out... there were a few seconds of dead air... then wham! The percussion would start and I'd hear that great novelty record (which I'd also purchased and played over and over). R.I.P., Jerry... you were one talented and innovative guy with a "Split-Level Head" (to note, another song by him)...

My condolences.

Bobbie, Scott, Jason, and All Family,
We are truly saddened to hear about the death of Mr. Jerry Samuels, and we send our heartfelt condolences to you during this difficult time. We have lost a talented person. We are thankful he shared his remarkable gifts as a record producer, songwriter, and talent agent, and he will certainly be missed.

He experimented with new editing technology in 1966 and using that technology he wrote and recorded a hit novelty song “They’re Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa!” that allowed him to vary the pitch and tempo of the song, and it became a hit. I remember hearing it when I was a young teen. Of course, he also wrote songs for other artists, including Carole King and Sammy Davis, Jr.

Please continue to treasure your good memories and may they soothe your saddened hearts. May prayers strengthen you and cherished memories comfort you, and may God soothe your hearts and comfort you always. Psalm 23

I don’t know Jerry but loved his song “ They’re Coming to take me Away” as a 14 year old I played this song on our towns teenage after school hangout jukebox 10 times in a row much to the chagrin of everyone there that afternoon. As a side note my future husband was a cook there, and years later when I mentioned playing the song that day he said “ was that you?” I remember that! Thanks Jerry for a song I’ve made reference to for 60 years!

Thanks for the memories.

He made the world a happier place. I pray that angels came to take him away.

Your song will be remembered.

Remember hearing his song on the radio over the years.

I offer my sincere condolences to the family of Jerry Samuels. May God give your family comfort and peace as you mourn his loss.