John Samuel "Sam" Roady

A life well-lived and loved came to a peaceful end with the passing of John Samuel 'Sam' Roady on October 24, 2025, at the age of 77. Born and raised in Norfolk, Sam grew up immersed in the love and support of his parents, Sid and Elgie, and his brother, Jimmy. His childhood was the definition of classic American fun, filled with flag football, an entrepreneurial paper route, and days spent piloting his beloved homemade boat, the "SeaDuce." A dash of playful mischief was his lifelong companion.
Sam attended Larchmont Elementary, Blair Jr. High, and Maury High School, and earned his Bachelor's degree at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. He went on to build a career in transportation at Royster Fertilizer. Later, Sam partnered with a few Royster colleagues to acquire a new venture, which they successfully built and sold a few years later. This success allowed Sam the joy of an early retirement, giving him decades to focus on his true passions: family and fun.
A devoted husband to his wife, Priscilla, Sam was a proud father to Samantha (Jonathan) and Matt (Lucy), and his stepsons, Ken (Larissa) and Jay (Gwynn). He was the ultimate "Pop Pop" to his grandchildren: Wyatt, Ella, Oliver, Natty, and the Trinder boys: Henry, Harrison, Cole, Carr, and Andrew.
Beyond his family, Sam lived a life of vibrant interests. He loved golf, fishing and boating, skiing, and always had an appreciation for fast cars. He also enjoyed gardening, and later in life developed a special fondness for orchids, patiently coaxing them to rebloom and eagerly sharing his secrets with others. While Sam loved to travel, his sanctuary was their home in Amagansett, NY, a cherished retreat where he and Priscilla spent 25 years creating memories with family and friends.
To know Sam was to love him. His fun, easygoing demeanor and genuine warmth made him a person who truly never met a stranger. He was the life of the party, a natural helper, and a wonderful teller of unforgettable stories. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, continuing to inspire and bring joy to those fortunate enough to have shared in his life.
A celebration of Sam's life will be held at Christ & St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Norfolk, VA on Friday, November 21, 2025 at 11am. The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made in Sam's memory to Christ & St. Luke's Episcopal Church.