Clarence “Sam” Sandefur, 81, of Marion, Ohio, passed away on June 26, 2024, after a brief illness. Born on June 13, 1943, in Dellroy, Ohio, he was a beloved figure in his community, known for his quick wit and generous spirit. One phrase he often said was “No matter where you go, there you are.” Now he is with The Lord yet everywhere each of us goes, Sam will be with us in spirit.
Sam graduated from Carrollton High School in 1961 and proudly served in the US Army, followed by the Army Reserves. He retired from GTE in 1998 after three decades of dedicated service and later enjoyed working for Matthews Honda where he continued to spread good cheer and develop close friendships.
He was a devout member of Epworth United Methodist Church in Marion, where he found great solace and community. Sam’s hobbies included golf, bowling, and being an avid spectator of sports, passionately supporting The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Guardians.
Sam is survived by his children, Ryan Sandefur (Mona Nowling) of Massillon, OH; Tiffany Hurlbut (Eric) of Warren, OH; and stepdaughter, Michelle Markley (Donnie) of Las Vegas, NV. He also leaves behind his sisters, Connie (Ron) Worsham, Lilly Arbogast, Cindy Sandefur, and Sue Sandefur; grandchildren, Alayna Morrison, Madison Hurlbut, Aaron Hurlbut, Amber Jenner, Alec Jenner, and Courtney Markley; and great-grandson, Greyson Shaw, along with many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathy Sandefur, his parents, Fred and Eileen Sandefur, brothers Marion, Paul, and Mark Sandefur, brother-in-law Randy Arbogast, and sister Polly Snider.
Services will be held at Epworth United Methodist Church, 249 E. Center St., Marion, on Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024, with calling hours from 10:00 am to 11:00 am followed by the service from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. Burial will follow at Marion Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Marion Concert Band (Summer Concert Series), c/o 632 Bordeaux Avenue, Marion, OH43302, in memory of Sam. His love for music and community will continue to echo through these contributions.
Boyd Funeral Home in Marion, OH, is assisting the family.