Sammy Lee Stanley

After a long and courageous battle with cancer, we mourn the loss Sammy Stanley, age 83 a beloved resident of Henderson, TN. He peacefully eternal rest on October 17 2023, surrounded his loving family at alive hospice in Nashville, TN.

Sammy was born December 14,1939, in Dublin, Georgia to his proud parents Pervy T. Stanley and Lucille Rozier. He embraced life with determination and achieved great success from an early age. As a dedicated student at Oconee High School, Sammy excelled academically and served as the class salutatorian. He also proved his prowess on the football field as co-captain of the team. Additionally, Sammy exhibited exceptional leadership skills and held the esteemed position of president in the high school student government. It is no surprise that he was honored with induction into the Dublin Ga Touchdown Club Hall of Fame for his accomplishments as a left end.

Following his ambition to serve his country, Sammy proudly dedicated 22 years of his life to the United States Navy. Rising in rank to Senior Chief Petty Officer - AMCS (Senior Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic), he received numerous accolades throughout his distinguished naval career, including 12 prestigious medals. Notably, Sammy pursued higher education during his time in the Navy and attained his Bachelor's degree. Post-military service, he joined the United States Postal Service (USPS) where he worked diligently for 10 years until retirement. Starting as a mail carrier, he displayed exceptional talent and received frequent promotions until becoming a respected Manager in the main post office mail distribution center. Sammy's commitment extended beyond his professional life as he actively participated in the USPS A+ organization.

Sammy Stanley leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to his family. He celebrated 60 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Josephine Richmond Stanley. Together, they built a remarkable life and nurtured a beautiful family. Sammy was a devoted father to his daughters Lisa C. Serme (Abdramane Serme) and Azier Culpepper (Robert "Ken" Culpepper). Additionally, he cherished Ronnie Stanley- Russell and family, who were like daughters to him, along with his Tennessee daughter, Shelly Jones. Sammy's grandchildren, Yusuf Serme, Bryant Serme, Abdulrahman "Junior" Serme, and Samuel "Sammy" Serme brought immense joy to his life. He also treasured his three great-grandchildren, Niya Travis, Jada Stanley, and Keviana Kali Stanley. Sammy's memory will forever live on in the hearts of his extended family including cousins, nieces, nephews, and the endearing presence of his beloved dog BJ. We would also like to acknowledge the kindness of his next-door neighbors Jack Newgent and Bonnie Konz for adopting BJ and providing unwavering support throughout.

Though our hearts weigh heavy with sorrow today, we find comfort knowing that Sammy is now reunited with his son Anthony D. Stanley and grandson Kevin Stanley in eternal peace. Sammy was the youngest of eleven siblings who preceded him in death: Perlie Mae, Mamie, Rayford, Rosabelle (Rose), Pervy T., Lillard, James, Dorris, Ann, and David.

Sammy's enthusiasm for life extended beyond his professional endeavors; he found solace in various hobbies that brought him delight. His love for all things Geography accompanied countless hours spent perusing the Almanac's pages as he expanded his knowledge of the world around him. Sammy relished in golf outings and found solace in music that touched his soul. Traveling allowed him to explore new horizons, and he took immense pleasure in cooking bbq and smoked turkey for his loved ones. A fierce sports enthusiast, Sammy was a loyal viewer of football games and tuned into MSNBC for unbiased news coverage. Moreover, Sammy's immense love for his extended family could be witnessed through the four memorable family reunions he proudly hosted.