Samuel Allison "Sammy" Brittain

Samuel Allison Brittain, affectionately known as Sammy, passed away peacefully at his home in Mills River, North Carolina, on December 29, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on September 13, 1938, in Henderson County, NC, Sammy was a cherished son of the late Daniel Wade Brittain, Sr. and Lela Allison Brittain.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Sammy is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Mary B. Brittain. He leaves behind his children: Terry (Ron) Smith of Boone, NC, Gary Brittain of Mills River, and Sherry (Tom) Hooper of Mills River. His legacy continues through his adored granddaughters: Casey Bolt (Jason), Amy Warren (Justin), Elizabeth Creamer (Scott), Samantha McMinn (Josh), and Natalie Brittain (Noah); and his beloved great-grandchildren: Ava Varnadore, Leila Varnadore, Addie Warren, Rhowen Creamer, Elowyn Creamer, and Sterling McMinn. He is also survived by his dear siblings Betty Donoho, Horace Brittain, Phillip Brittain, and Geneva Bishop, and his special niece, Chris Miller.

Sammy was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Daniel, David, and Vance Brittain, and sister, Elizabeth Brittain.

A proud 1957 graduate of Mills River High School, Sammy dedicated 40 years of service as a Maintenance Engineer with the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Following his retirement, he continued to contribute to his community by assisting his son at the Mills River Quick Lube for an additional 16 years. Sammy also served his county and state with honor, retiring with the rank of Sergeant First Class after 18 years with the North Carolina National Guard.

Sammy was a proud lifelong member of the Mills River community, which he held dear to his heart. He was a founding and lifelong member of the Mills River Volunteer Fire Department, and an active member of the Mills River United Methodist Church, where he worked diligently with the Methodist Men's group.

An avid lover of the outdoors, Sammy found joy in tending to his horses and mowing his grass, often referring to his barn as his "happy place." His love for his family was unparalleled, and he was especially fond of his granddaughters and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service to celebrate Sammy's life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Mills River United Methodist Church, with Pastor Luke Christy officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Mills River Volunteer Fire Department, 5400 Boylston Highway, Mills River, NC 28759 or by clicking HERE, or to Mills River United Methodist Church, 137 Old Turnpike Road, Mills River, NC 28759 or by clicking HERE.

The family would like to offer a heart-felt "Thank You" to Dr. Robert Smith and the staff of Forge Mountain Medicine, as well as the physicians and staff of Four Seasons Hospice for the care and concern shown to Sammy throughout his journey.

Please be mindful of Mrs. Brittain's health concerns during the visitation time.

Sammy Brittain will be remembered for his dedicated service, his love for his family and community, and the joy he brought to all who knew him.