Sam was born in the Dominican Republic on December 29, 1941, to Romelio and Altagracia “Tatica” Leonor. The third of nine siblings, he was raised in a deeply spiritual home where he learned the value of hard work, perseverance in the face of adversity, and to respect and honor every person. These traits shaped his character and were just a few of the reasons he was so loved and appreciated.

Sam received a degree in business administration and accounting from Antillean College in Puerto Rico and served the Seventh-day Adventist church for 42 years. He was a hospital administrator in Nicaragua; Montemorelos, Mexico; Orlando, Florida; Killeen, Texas; Avon Park, Florida; and Puerto Rico. He was also treasurer for the Central American Union Conference. During this time, he was ordained to the gospel ministry, which was especially meaningful to him. Sam’s last position was as corporate risk management director for Adventist Health Sunbelt (now AdventHealth).

In retirement, Sam loved being a part of and leading in his local church and serving as president of the Carolina Retirees Association Northwest. He stayed healthy by maintaining a daily exercise regimen and enjoying vegetables from his extensive garden. He had a strong social network and enjoyed spending time with his wife, Damaris, his favorite neighbors (his daughter and her family), friends, and most recently little Cooper, a quick-tempered Shih Tzu. In early 2021, he and Damaris moved to the Fletcher Park Inn retirement villas. They thoroughly enjoyed their new community where they renewed friendships and made many new ones.

If you asked Sam, he would tell you that his greatest accomplishments had nothing to do with his career, but instead were being a husband to Damaris for 58 years, a father to three children, and a grandfather to six. He was also proud of being part of a large and very close family and being available and a companion to the many who called him friend. In his own words, his greatest joy was “helping others to get ready for the second coming of Jesus.”

Sam is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Gisela Gutierrez. He is survived by his wife, Damaris; his children, Zahira Owen, Samiris, and Sam Jr.; and his grandchildren, Stephanie, April, Kimberly, Ali, Gracie, and Samuel Micah. He is also survived by his siblings, Luis, Alida, Guaro, Mencia, Nina, Juan “Melito,” and Afif.

Sam’s family cordially invites you to celebrate his life on Saturday, February 26, 2022, at 3 p.m. at the Fletcher Seventh-day Adventist Church. They kindly request that all in-person attendees be vaccinated against COVID-19. Properly worn masks will also be required. The event will be available for viewing online for those who are not able to attend.

Funeral arrangement under the care of
Shuler Funeral Home Inc

Updated by : Shelley Leonor