Lloyd E. "Sam" Sloan

Lloyd Eugene Sloan, better known as "Sam Sloan", passed away at the age of 88 on Thursday, December 12th, 2024, at the Roudebush VA Medical Center in Indianapolis with loved ones by his side. His life began on Friday, August 28th, 1936, in Martinsville, Indiana, when he was born to the late Perry J. and Lillie (Bowman) Sloan.
A lifelong resident of Martinsville, Sam graduated with the class of 1955 from Martinsville High School. The following year, on October 26th, 1956, he enlisted in the US Army serving his country with bravery during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged on October 25th, 1958.
Upon returning from the service, Sam gained employment with General Motors in Indianapolis. He was a valuable and dedicated employee for GM for over 35 years, retiring in 1994 as a supervisor.
On August 28th, 1970, he married the love of his life, Nancy Claire (Suddith). The two were unquestionably soulmates and best friends. He always put Nancy first and treated her with the kind of love and respect some would only dream of.
He was a longtime member of the First Christian Church in Martinsville and the American Legion Post #230. As a young boy, he spent countless hours learning to whittle with a local Martinsville man named Sam Capehart, earning him the nickname "Sam". Not only did he carry that nickname his entire life, but he also acquired a love for woodworking, at which he was quite talented. Aside from woodworking, Sam also loved Indiana University Football and Basketball, and all things relating to water, especially sailing and fishing. After retirement, he enrolled in marine navigation classes and earned a celestial navigation license. With his license in hand and years of research, Sam fulfilled one of his dreams and purchased a 36' Bluewater sailboat he named "Salliann". He spent the next few years living on his sailboat off the coast of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
Sam leaves a legacy of love, dedication, kindness and extraordinary storytelling that will be fondly remembered by all who know him. He is survived by his wife of nearly 55 years, Nancy Sloan of Martinsville; a very special cousin-in-law and her husband, Julie and Donnie Noel of Martinsville and several nieces, nephews and additional cousins.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his only son, Sam Sloan; four brothers, Robert, William, Paul and Johnny Sloan; and four sisters, Dorothy, Mildred, Barbara, and Mimajane.
As per Sam's last request, he will be cremated and there will not be any services at this time.
Final arrangements have been entrusted to Neal & Summers Funeral and Cremation Center in Martinsville.
Condolences and fond memories are encouraged to be shared online at www.nealandsummers.com