William N. Sams Jr.

1939 - 2023

William Norman "Sonny" Sams Jr., 84, a resident of Lower Burrell, and formerly of New Kensington, peacefully departed Monday, Dec. 4, 2023, surrounded by his sons, Darren and Darrick. Born July 10, 1939, to the late Willie Sams Sr. and Alice Kuznicki Sams, Sonny was a distinguished graduate of New Kensington High School in 1957. He furthered his education, obtaining a bachelor's degree from Arizona State University's School of Business. Sonny dedicated 37 years to a successful career as the regional sales manager for Globe Ticket Sales. Preceded in death by his beloved parents, Sonny is survived by his sister, Norma "Babe" Sams; and his sons, Darren and Darrick, along with their respective wives, Heather and Violet. His legacy is embraced through his grandchildren, Barrett, Claire, Hayden, Maximilian and Mya. Sonny was an avid sports fan who until recently attended all Steelers and Pirates home games; he went to more than 5,000 Pirates games during his lifetime. Funeral services to honor Sonny's life will be conducted at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 11, 2023, at Mt. St. Peter Roman Catholic Church, located at 100 Freeport Road, New Kensington. Following the service, a private burial will take place in Greenwood Memorial Park Cemetery. ROSS G. WALKER FUNERAL HOME LTD. of New Kensington was entrusted with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Pirates Charities in Sonny's memory.