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Samuel Rackley Obituary

Samuel Perry Rackley

Samuel Perry Rackley, 48, of Tallahassee, Florida, passed away Monday, February 2, 2014. Sam was born in Atlanta, Georgia, on September 25, 1965, to James and Anne Rackley. He graduated from Lincoln High School.

He worked for National Guardian Security and Capital Hitch Service before taking over the Sign Connection to spend more time with his very much loved son, Caden. Sam helped coach the Northwest Little League and enjoyed taking Caden to the BMX bike track. He became quite the family man when Caden was born. His wife and son were his life. His infectious smile and cheerfulness will truly be missed.

Sam is survived by his wife, Sheri Stephens Rackley, his son, Samuel Caden Rackley, mother and father, James Rackley, Sr. and Anne Rackley, of Crawfordville, FL, brothers; James Rackley, Jr. (Lisa), of Tallahassee, FL, Christopher Rackley (Tammy), of Crawfordville, FL, nephews; Alex Rackley, Colin Stephens, Preston Burke (Natalie), Trace Gainey, and one niece; Savannah Stephens; mother in law, Gayle Mitchell, father in law, Larry Stephens, brother in law, Mitch Stephens, and sister in law Carla Stephens.

Sam is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Col. Samuel R. and Lillian Morris; and his paternal grandparents, Dr. Henry P. and Valli Rhae Rackley.

Family will receive friends on Friday, February 7 from 5 to 6:30, with a Celebration of Life at 6:30, at Culley's on Timberlane Road.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial college fund has been established for Samuel Caden Rackley. Please make checks payable to Samuel Caden Rackley, 6419 Stone Street Trail, Tallahassee, Florida 32309, or make a deposit at any Farmers & Merchants Bank.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Tallahassee Democrat from Feb. 6 to Feb. 8, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Samuel Rackley

Not sure what to say?





Susan Dancy

February 1, 2015

Have not forgotten the lovely Dad who would come eat lunch with his beloved son. He would be grinning and his boy would be smiling up at him leaning as close as possible
into his father. As a believer it is a comfort to know that your loved one is not in your past. He is in your future. Still praying. Call if you need to talk. Lean in close to your heavenly Father.

Micaah Simmons

March 12, 2014

Sam was very loving and kind to everyone. It is so sad and terrible that his life was cut short.good thing for the Rackley family that they have God watching out for them always God bless.R.I.P. Sam

David Arnold

February 19, 2014

Sam, I just found out aout your passing. I have not stopped tearing up since I found out. Sherry called and let me know today and the day has been very Sad. I had such the best time growing up with you and your family. We had planned to meet up with my family in North Carolina to go snow skiing. I will always remember how funny and the best friend i could ever have. The Best man in my first wedding and friend forever. I hope and pray that your wife and son live up to your proud family heritage. Love you always...David W. Arnold 336-671-2729

February 9, 2014

Dear Sheri & family,
The photo gallery brought back great memories of seeing Sam when we were all younger, especially on his bike - he loved that bike! Sam was a funny guy and had a smile that would light up a room. Keeping you all in my thoughts & prayers.

Kathy (Thomas) Keiffer
LHS - '82

February 9, 2014

Im so sorry to hear of Sam's death, my condolences to his family. Sam and i went to Lincoln together and even though I have not seen him since high school i have often wondered how he was doing. Im sure he will be missed. I will never forget his great smile.

School mate Reca Sloan Hiers

February 8, 2014

chester foster and family God has call home an Angel.

David Youngman

February 8, 2014

My entire Family sends their love

Kevin Canova

February 8, 2014

Another High School Friend; taken too soon from this earth; condolences to his family & loved ones! God Bless.

Todd Simpson

February 7, 2014

I was quarterback ,Sam was running back ,he was faster.We rode bikes together for years through the neighborhood and again Sam was always faster.Together we graduated up to motorcycles and then both drove jeeps sometimes with permission sometimes without.Mr.Rackley learned to put his hand on the hood of that old black jeep in the mornings and that put an end to the withouts.Sam and I grew up together and even though life took us in different directions I still think of him as one of my closest friends .Jim and Chris ,I share your pain and you guys have also been like brothers to me .I pray for god to give all of Sams loved ones the strength to get through this and thank him for the years that I did have with Sam as my wingman.May God accept and rest his soul and excuse him if him and his buddy Steve get a little loud its been awhile.

Nicole holland

February 7, 2014

Sherri you and your son and family are in my prayers I love yall I am here for y'all love Nicole Holland

Jamie Kellerman

February 7, 2014

You never think you would have to do this for one of your best friends...I met Sam when I was in 6th grade at Raa middle school 36 years ago. He has been a good friend to me and my family over the years. My prayers go out to both families.

Donna Lewis

February 7, 2014

To all Sam's loved ones, I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. Sam and I were very close in High School and I have some fond memories! He was very passionate, caring, generous, loving and a ton of fun. His light burned out way too soon but I hope you trust in God's plan for him. Peace and comfort to you all.
Donna Johnson Lewis (Jupiter, FL, formerly of Tallahassee, FL)

Kim Cheek Hargett

February 7, 2014

The Rackley's have held a very special place in my heart for 35 years. Sam was like a baby brother for many years and although I have not seen him in a very very long time he was always so dear to me. It is with very heavy heart that I find myself sending my deepest condolences to all of the Rackley's at this time. One of the first things I thought of was he will be with Daddy Sam watching over all of you. He will not be alone and you will now have both Sam's watching over you. My wish for you all is that this time of grief and sorrow will move quickly to ease your pain and that Caden keeps the love and memories of his daddy close to his heart and always knows just how much he was loved and obviously the apple of his daddy's eye. May you soon smile at the memories and laugh because it happened. Sending lots of love and prayers your way.

Lisa Fleck

February 7, 2014

I have known Sam a long time. I am so sorry that his life was cute short. My prayers are with his family.

Brenda Brown

February 7, 2014

My prayers are with Sheri and Caden. Sam loved them so much. Anyone that knew Sam, loved him. He will surely be missed. Prayers for comfort, strength and understanding goes out Sheri and the family.

Linda Lewis

February 7, 2014

Sheri, my thoughts and prayers are with you & Caden during this trying time. Caden will be your shining light through all of this. Bless you Caden, your dad was truly loved.

The Frye's

February 7, 2014

With deepest heartfelt sympathies. You and Caden are in our thoughts, and love and strength is sent your way.

Tami Owen

February 7, 2014

Sam loved life and was funny, and fun to be around. I have so many fond memories over the years of chili cook offs, beach trips, and just hanging out with you and Sam. He was many times the life of the party. He was good hearted, a good father, and he loved his family and friends. So many hearts are broken right now over his death and saying he will be missed just isn't enough. Caden lost a wonderful father who loved him dearly. Sheri I love you and am praying for strength for you, Caden, and the rest of the family. May God bless all of you.

Christy Keesee

February 7, 2014

Sheri, so sorry for your lost, sending out prayers for you and your family.

Cheryl Peacock

February 7, 2014

I'm going to miss seeing your smile. It would brighten anyone's day. My prayers are with your family and Caden especially.

Melanie Dunmire

February 7, 2014

Sherry, I am so sorry! There are no words, except I love you & will keep you in my prayers.!

Dorothy Rackley

February 7, 2014

Sam R.I.P. Devean my grandson was on the same football team with Caden. Devean Caden was on different baseball teams so I told Sam the only time I was cheering was when Caden batted. I told him kin folk stick together. Yes Sam smile I will remember. Sheri God will be a husband and Caden He will be a father. God please take care of Sam family. Love, Dot and Jared Rackley and Natalie and Devean Parrish.

Lou Halstead

February 7, 2014

Please know I amn with you in spirit, Sheri and Caden. I love you

Lawrence, Jamie, Mary Paetyn, Tre ~The Steeds

February 6, 2014

So sorry for your loss. May God give you guys strength through this difficult time. Don't hesitate to give us a call if you need anything.

carolyn hargrove

February 6, 2014

sherry so sorry for you loss thinking of you but ya know there is not a lot of words only time wanted to let ya know im thinking of you prayers my friend from my heart

Laurie Glisson/Kellerman

February 6, 2014

What can I say about Sam. He was a good friend of my brother, Jamie. When he lived around the corner from us I sometimes went to the lakes with them, always a good time peace go with those left behind for now because one day you will reunite with Sam and it will be fantastic!!! Just believe and don't be sad rather keep hope alive for his wife and son. Prayers are with you all. Peac

Scott Magruder

February 6, 2014

Mr.& Mrs Rackley and family - please accept my sincerest condolences. Sam and I were best of friends at Raa Middle School. I am deeply saddened to learn of Sam's passing. May the Lord provide you a special measure of comfort and strength in your time of greatest need.

Buff Crook

February 6, 2014

It's been so many years since we have been in touch Sam, but the news of your passing was no less hard to take. Thank you with all my heart for being somewhat of a hero...and a great friend to me when we were kids. Life at Raa Middle School was hard sometimes...but you were a wonderful friend, protector, advocate, ally, etc.. Im sure these are traits you have passed along to your son. You and your family are in my prayers. Your presence will be missed! Godspeed my friend!

Kristin Jordan (Brandon)

February 6, 2014

Sheri and Caden I am so sorry for your loss. It is not easy being young and loosing your dad. Caden be strong and know that he will always being looking down on you and watching you. He will never leave your side, he will always be in your heart. Sheri, you and your son are in my prayers.

Gracie Reis

February 6, 2014

I'm so sorry Caden

Keith & Lela Brown

February 6, 2014

As God comforts your hearts may your angels hold you and carry you through your sadness.RIP Sam

Tammi Lau

February 6, 2014

Sheri and Caden, my heart mourns with you. Praying God will be with you both. Sam will be missed so much.

BJ Stewart

February 6, 2014

So sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.

Cindy Kimbrell-Lewis

February 6, 2014

Doug and I are so very sorry for your loss. You and your son are in our prayers and thoughts.

Kay Harrell

February 6, 2014

Sheri, I'm so sorry your life is filled with this pain and heartache. But know that our God will help you through the pain. I ask you, Lord to comfort my friend because you have promised everlasting consolation and hope through your Grace. In Jesus precious name I pray, Amen

Rhonda Bennett

February 6, 2014

Another Angel in heaven. So sorry for your loss Sheri. Prayers to you and your family.

February 6, 2014

Sheri and Caden,

I am so sorry for your loss. Sam was always such a nice person with a BIG smile on his face. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Love, Christie Estes

Danny, Annecia & Tommy Dunaway

February 6, 2014

So sorry for your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with you and Caden during this difficult time.

Chris Mann

February 6, 2014

Sheri and Caden. I am so sorry for loss. Sam was a wonderful, witty, and kind person. These days are going to be so hard on you both. GOD be with you. Find strength in GOD. I will pray that pain will be replaced with memories of good times you shared with Sam. R.I.P. Sam you will be missed here on earth. GOD BLESS

Sheila Day

February 6, 2014

Sheri I'm so sorry for your loss. You and Caden are in my thoughts and prayers. Sam will be missed by many. I loved talking to him at the ball field. He loved to watch Caden play baseball just as much as you did. Always there at his baseball games giving him pointers of the game.

Brenda Marsh

February 6, 2014

Sam will be sorely missed. He was a well known fixture in our neighborhood, always helping out the neighbors and being a great dad to Caden. It doesn't seem right not to hear that big red truck going up and down the street. Thanks for always being there for Jack! Rest in peace buddy.

February 6, 2014

Dear Sheri and Caden, So, true about his infections smile and the way he so obviously loved his son. Over the years he was one of the parents I enjoyed coming in contact with At COE.

My prayers are with you. Caden, when you see me around school, know that I and others are praying for you. Susan Dancy

Brian & Michelle Duprey

February 6, 2014

His light will shine on.

Brian & Michelle Duprey

February 6, 2014

Dear, Sheri and Caden I am so sorry for your loss, Sam was one of a kind always smiling and joking around but I do know he loved you guys very much :) My thoughts and prayers are with you both during this time. God has another Angel by his side. Love, Brian & Michelle Duprey

Susie Christie-McRae

February 6, 2014

It is so hard to know what to say at a time like this. Sam was an outstanding person and will be missed and I pray for peace in your heart so you can continue on life's journey with happy memories as you see Sam's light shining through Caden's eyes! I love you Sheri and I am so sorry you are having to go thru this. It is not promised that life would be easy, but it is promised that it will be worth it. Hang in there my friend, God is with you and Caden!

Amy & David Harrison

February 6, 2014

Sheri, Caden, Anne, Jim, and the entire family-

Our prayers are with you during your time of bereavement. May God continue to strengthen you as each day passes.

Looking back, may you be filled with gratitude;
Looking forward, may you be filled with hope;
Looking upward, may you be aware of strength;
Looking inward, may you find peace.

We love you, Amy (Stewart) & David Harrison

Kristi Tucker Payne

February 6, 2014

My heart is breaking with you in the loss of Samuel Perry Rackley as I often called him. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you, especially Caden as he was the light of Sam's life. Everything he did was for him as Caden was his biggest blessing. I pray that God grants you the peace that passes all understanding. He may be gone, but all of our memories will live on in our hearts and he will never be forgotten.

Emily Prine

February 6, 2014

Love and prayers to you and Caden.

Kitte Carter

February 5, 2014

Shari, I am so sorry for your loss. I talked with Sam, last Friday as Linda and I were the last people left at the shop. As always he was so sweet told us he was locking us in. You and Caden are in my prayers.

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Funeral services provided by:

Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home & Memorial Park - Tallahassee

700 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312

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