Samuel D. Purses

Samuel D. Purses, age 83, of Canton, was transformed in death to a new life in union with the Cosmic Christ on October 28, 2025 after an extended illness. Sam was born on October 5, 1942 to the late Sam and Clara (Vitale) Purses. Besides his parents, Sam was preceded in death by his son Jonathan and sister Pam.
He is survived by his loving wife and caregiver, Teresa, his children, Jeanna (Ken), Sam, and Jim (Alexis) Purses; her children: Tor, Rich (Nikki) Garman and Jen Picha; his siblings, Lee (Jeff) Orin, Debbie (Pete) Ferguson, Vickie (Steve) Ashbaugh, Rick (Pam) Purses; brothers and sister-in-law Dan Hughes, Susie (Bob) Shroyer, and Reed (Sue) McConnell; as well as eight cherished grandchildren, August, Clara, Akira, Annabella, Jack, Reece, Josh, and Ryan; and many special nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.
Sam graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1960 and later spent three years in monastic study at La Salle University in Philadelphia and Ammendale Normal Institute in Maryland. He earned his bachelor's degree in history at Walsh University, a Master of Public Administration degree, and pursued doctoral studies at the University of Akron.
A lifelong learner and servant leader, Sam's vocation centered on education, public service, and faith. He began his career teaching at Walker Junior High in Canton Local Schools in 1964. The social upheaval of the 1960s awakened in him a deep commitment to justice and community leadership, leading him to pursue a path in government. Over the years, he served in numerous public leadership roles across several cities, culminating in his election as Mayor of Canton (1984–1992).
After his time in public office, Sam returned to his first love - education - teaching in middle and high schools, as well as at several universities. He also volunteered with the Greater Stark County Urban League, helping individuals earn their GEDs.
Rooted in his Italian heritage, faith, and family, Sam found joy in celebrating the achievements of his children, grandchildren, students, and colleagues. He attributed his deep devotion and moral grounding to his parents and grandparents, whose faith and love shaped his life's purpose.
Sam lived his faith actively - serving as a prayer and meditation leader, choir member, liturgist, Stephen Minister, CCD teacher, and volunteer at the Faith Kitchen Food Pantry. He found spiritual nourishment and fellowship at the Center for Action and Contemplation, Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Faith United, and Crystal Park United Methodist Churches.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Faith United and Crystal Park church families, Stephen Ministers, Advantage Hospice, and Compassion Delivered for their care, prayers, meals, and steadfast support during Sam's final years.
Friends may call on Thursday, November 6, from 5-8 pm at Faith United Methodist Church, 300 Ninth St. N.W. North Canton. A Catholic Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, November 7, at 4:00 pm at St. Francis of Assisi Parish at St. Anthony's Church, 1530 33th St. S.E. Canton.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made for a scholarship in his memory to CS Alumni & Friends Foundation c/o Canton Local Schools, the Community Assistance Fund at Faith United Methodist Church, or Compassion Delivered.
ROSSI (330) 492-5830
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