Sam Elam Obituary (1932 - 2024) - Saint Helena Island, South Carolina

Sam Ray Elam, 92, of Dataw Island, SC, formerly of Niantic, CT, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 30, 2024, surrounded by his entire family at Beaufort Memorial Hospital. Born on January 13, 1932, in Wise, VA, Sam was the son of the late Henry Walter and Gladys (Osborne) Elam. On August 7, 1955, he married the love of his life, Peggy Kiser. Their 69 years of marriage were filled with love, adventure, and a shared devotion to family. Together, they started their lives as newlyweds in Cincinnati, OH, before settling in Niantic, CT, where they spent more than 50 years. In 2017, Sam and Peggy returned to the South and made their home on Dataw Island, enjoying the beauty of the Lowcountry. From his office on Dataw, Sam relished the simple pleasures of life, taking in breathtaking sunsets and watching dolphins and birds glide along the marsh. He found peace in these moments, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Sam was a trailblazer in his family, being the first to graduate college, and later earning a Master’s degree in Engineering. He had a deep respect for education and inspired his daughter and grandchildren to pursue learning with passion. His career was marked by remarkable success; he retired in 1994 as Senior Vice President of Analysis & Technology, a company he helped grow from 12 employees to over 1,500. Sam’s sharp mind and love for numbers remained with him throughout his life. He had a deep appreciation for life’s joys: cooking breakfast for Peggy every morning, making silver dollar pancakes for his grandchildren, savoring a good old-fashioned cocktail, challenging himself in bridge games, and cheering for Alabama football—Roll Tide! Sam’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. As a Sunday School teacher and Deacon, he served God with humility and devotion. His love for travel took him to Italy, England, Scotland, Hawaii, and beyond, and he shared these experiences with delight. Above all, Sam’s greatest joy was his role as a husband, father, and "Grandaddy." He poured endless love into his family, attending every game, event, and milestone with pride and joy. Sam is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy K. Elam; his cherished daughter, Teresa Rae Elam-Eller; his treasured grandchildren, Brenden, Connor, Madison, and Jillian; and his son-in-law, and best buddy, Roddy Diotalevi. The family finds comfort in the love and memories they shared with Sam. In his final moments, they surrounded him with hugs, kisses, songs, and prayers as he entered God’s Kingdom. Their hearts ache with his loss, but they are filled with gratitude for the legacy of love and humility he leaves behind. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you honor Sam by visiting your local library and checking out a book to read in his memory. Sam loved reading and cherished the library. A private celebration of Sam’s life will be held at a later date. "Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23