Samuel Roy Builta

Samuel Roy Builta, 91, of Plano, Texas, passed away on September 23, 2025. He was born in July of 1934 to Roy Alfred and Alberta Henrietta (Babbitt) Builta, and was raised in Kerrville, Texas, where he graduated from Tivy High School. Following high school, he attended Schreiner Institute and The University of Texas.

He married Bettye Lou Middleton in 1958. During their 66 years of marriage, they enjoyed their many friends and family, traveling the world, and raising their children in Del Rio, Texas.

Sam spent much of his life in business, buying, selling, and founding companies and real estate projects. A licensed pilot, he enjoyed flying and owned several planes over the years. He also loved collecting cars and spending time with friends, especially over a good game of backgammon. In later life he enjoyed attending Cross Church and visiting with friends at The Village at Prestonwood.

Sam was preceded in death by Bettye Lou in 2024. He was also preceded in death by his parents, and siblings Clara Bullard, James Builta, and Kenneth Builta.

Sam is survived by his children: Cathy Hurley of Dallas; Steve Builta (Lynne) of Austin; and David Builta of Dallas. He was the grandfather of Lauren Stevens, Jennifer Hurley (Eric Stuart), Tara Hurley (Cody Stovall), Drake, Tanner, Caroline, and Cody Builta; and the great-grandfather of Colton, Henry, and Harris.