Sam L. Word was born June 6, 1941 in Shelby County, TN the son of the late W.L. and Zena Mae Hamlett Word.
He was united in marriage to Janice Walker on September 12, 1960.
Mr. Word had lived in Southaven, MS for 35 years, Adamsville, TN for 14 1/2 years before moving to Ringgold, GA to be closer to family. In Southaven, they were members of Southaven First Baptist Church where he was baptized in September of 1980. They moved their membership to First Baptist Church in Adamsville, TN and then to Burning Bush Baptist Church in Ringgold, GA. He was dedicated to the church and serving the Lord. He retired, at the age of 55, from Kellogg Company in Memphis after 31 1/2 years. Once retired, he along with his wife pursued travel and mission work. They went on numerous mission trips across the United States and Mexico. Their travels led them to every state except Michigan and Hawaii.
He was a huge fan of Tennessee football, enjoyed bluegrass music and shows, traveling and going hunting. He had a great sense of humor along with his quick wit.
Mr. Word departed this life on March 24, 2019 in La Fayette, Georgia at the age of 77 Years, 9 Months, 18 Days. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jan Word of Ringgold, GA; a daughter, Sandi Case and husband Mike of Ringgold, GA; a son, Lance Word and wife Jodi of Magee, MS; four grandchildren, Will Word and fiance' Layna Lovelady, Joanna Word, Rebecca Case, Cassie Case; a sister, Janet Tharpe of Memphis, TN; sister-in-law,Cutha Word of Smithtown, IL; and a host of nieces,nephews, and friends.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Word was preceded in death by two brothers, Bubba and Charles Word.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.