Sammy Ray Deitz

Sammy Ray Deitz, 80 of Paul Cooper Road, went to his heavenly home on February 1, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was the son of the late Samuel Welch and Ida McConnell Deitz.

A member of Deitz Memorial Baptist Church, he retired from the Department of Transportation after 35 years of service. He also retired from the Qualla Fire Department. He was a member of the Jackson Rangers (Camp # 1917).

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by ten siblings, six brothers, Morgan, Billy, Freeman, Walker, Paul and Baby John; four sisters, Emma Belle, Peggy, Edith, and Baby Mary.

Surviving are his wife of 55 years (Earlene); daughter, April Porter (Mike); granddaughter, Candace (Josh); two grandsons, Mitchel (Shyanne) Brock and Adam Adams; two great granddaughters, Anona and Loshi; brother, Mike Deitz, and two step grandsons, Jake (Autumn) and Clinton ( Catelena) and Autumn, three great step children, Sophia, Colter, and Clayton.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the East Fork Cemetery with Rev. Bucky Dann and the Jackson Rangers conducting the service.

Pallbearers will be members of the Qualla Fire Department.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Qualla Fire Department or The Jackson Rangers.