Mary Ella Sams

Mary Sams Obituary
Mary Ella was born October 16, 1957, in Townsend, Georgia to the late Rhodie Harvey and Arthur T. Sanders, Sr. She is a proud product of the Duval and McIntosh County Public School System; 1975 graduate of McIntosh County Academy formerly Darien High School. She was well rounded, active, and participated in athletics.
Following high school, Mary wed the love of her life and lived in marital bliss, joined the work force, and dedicated her life to family, fellowship, compassionate service, and professional excellence. She first embarked on a career contributing to the good health and the wellness of others at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida; she then traveled overseas with her beloved husband and flourished in a career nurturing young minds at the Bentwaters Military Base Daycare in London. While stateside she supported agricultural excellence at Tyson Foods. Later she worked with our county school transportation office which led her to fulfill her true calling at Robert E. Lee/Riverside High School for nearly three decades. Her influence will never fade. While there, she dedicated her life to the betterment and enhancement of countless students, parents, and staff educational experience. She was well liked by her colleagues and peers. Her relationship with God spilled over into every conversation. Just as she planted seeds of goodwill into others, she also took great pleasure tending to her yard and main office plants. Mary's life may have taken her to various places around the world and allowed interactions with many, but her most prized role was being a devout mother and grandmother.
Our beloved Mary Ella exchanged earthly labor for heavenly reward on Friday, January 5, 2024. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Elder Larry. L. Sams. Left to cherish fond memories and further enhance her legacy are three loving children, La'Terrance Sams (Terri), La'Shaun Sams (Alanda) and Staci (Baxter Jr.); six grandchildren, Anna (Jared), La'Shaun Jr., La'Rian, Cali, Kaelynn and Skylar; siblings, Lorna Sanders, Arthur Tracy Sanders (Tricia), Carlton Baker (Carmen), Kenneth (Marie) Baker, Renard Sanders, Suwana Taylor, Thurnell Alston, Jr. (Esther), Antonio Alston (Sonya), Lavan Alston, Michelle Alston, and Margo White (Eric); in-laws, Barry Jones (Tamika) and Gwen Sams-Lynch (Lynval); and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, supportive friends and students.
Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.
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