Nathan Sams, Sr.

Nathan Sams, Sr., 82, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Union Baptist Church, with burial at Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Nathan Sams was born October 20, 1943, in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late James Louis Sams, Sr. and Annie Lou Pippins Sams. Affectionately known as “Na,” he was a kind, humble, and gentle man who lived a life devoted to faith, family, and service to others. He was educated in the Bibb County School System and graduated from Peter G. Appling High School, Class of 1963.

Mr. Sams proudly served his country in the United States Army as an 82nd Airborne Paratrooper. He later married Helen Alflorence Meredith, and together they had four children. A dedicated provider and lifelong learner, he furthered his education at Macon Tech and Macon Junior College, earning certifications in welding, music, and computer training. He worked for Norfolk Southern Railway Systems as a switchman and conductor until his retirement.

Nathan was committed to serving his community. For more than 30 years he was an active member of the Optimist International Club, supporting youth and children with special needs, and he was also a member of American Legion Post 591.

A devoted believer, he was a member of Union Baptist Church, where he served in the male choir and previously as Assistant Superintendent of Sunday School. Gifted in music, he shared
his talents on piano and guitar with several traveling gospel groups, including the Keys of Faith, Peace Brothers, and New Believers of Macon.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sons, Nathan Sams, Jr. and Roderick Sams.

He is survived by his son, Jarvis Montague Sams; daughter, Be-Atrice (Troy) Cunningham; siblings James (Mary) Sams, Jr., Larry (Gloria) Sams, Gloria Ann Sams-Carter, Fannie Collins, Linda Sams, and Harriett (James) Brown; seven grandchildren, Bryan Christopher Smalls, Kaylen Sams, Andre Sams, Katrina Sams, Jarlina Sams, Tara Clark and Troy Cunningham, Jr; four great-grandchildren; his devoted friend Doshia Dinkins; and a host of loving relatives and friends.

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