Sam Ferreri

1930 - 2019

FERRERI, Sam passed away on December 16, 2019 in Tampa, FL. Sam was born in Tampa on February 3, 1930 to Sam and Dolores Ferreri. He graduated from Hillsborough High School, then graduated from Tulane University and Tulane Medical School, where he met his wife Dolores. He interned and took his pediatric residency at Charity Hospital in New Orleans. Sam then served as a physician and Captain in the Army before returning to Tampa where he set up his pediatric practice with Dr. Buddy Dean. They established Tampa Bay Pediatrics where he practiced for over 30 years. Sam was a founding member of St. Paul's Catholic Church, where he continued to serve on the board until recently. He served his community in many ways, including positions on the boards of Morning Star School, St. Joseph's Hospital, and Tampa General Hospital. Sam enjoyed traveling and experienced many adventures with Dolores and other friends and family members. He enjoyed good food, fine wine, and strong coffee. He was an avid sports fan, supporting the Buccaneers, Rays, and USF Bulls for many years. Sam is predeceased by his brother, Frank S. Ferreri; and his parents, Sam and Dolores D. Ferreri. He is survived by his wife of 65 years Dolores M. Ferreri; his children, Tim Ferreri (Cathy), Dennis Ferreri (Rose), Karen Ferreri, Kenny Ferreri, and Janelle Thaxton (Duffy); and his five grandchildren, Christopher Ferreri, Andrew Ferreri, Cheyenne Ferreri, Sam Thaxton and Will Thaxton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Morning Star School of Tampa, in memory of Sam Ferreri. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10 am on Friday, December 20, 2019 at St. Paul Catholic Church. Arrangements entrusted to Gonzalez Funeral Home.