Sam Paxton

Samuel “Sam” Paxton of Concord, NC, passed away on September 27, 2024, at Tucker Hospice House, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 27, 1942, in Concord to the late Elias James “EJ” Paxton and Lora McDaniel Paxton. He was the oldest of seven children in a tight-knit family that grew up on Franklin Mill Hill.

After graduating from Hartsell High School in 1960, Sam worked at C.B. Drugs, Reed Street Groceries, and Cannon Mills (Plant 9) before eventually becoming self-employed, dealing in rebuildable cores and scrap metal.

In 1962, he met Kathy Sue Deal and made her his wife on May 16, 1964. Together, they had three children: Teddy Wayne (1965), Tammy Kathleen (1966), and Terry Lynn (1969). Their family expanded in 1981 when they welcomed Rhonda Michelle into their home.

He was happiest when spending time with his friends and family, traveling, and camping at the beach. He loved sitting on his front porch, tending to his garden, and mowing his lawn. His fondest memories included adventures across the country with his brother Mike and sister-in-law Cindy. He also thoroughly enjoyed volunteering his time to cook pre-game meals for the Concord High School football team and cheering them on to victory for over 30 years.

He was preceded in death by his son Teddy; his parents, “EJ” and Lora; his brothers Frank and Shelton; and his sister Becky.

His memory will live on with his wife of 62 years, Kathy; son Terry (Connie); daughters Tammy and Rhonda (Grayson); granddaughters Kimberly and Hillary; grandson Landon; and great-grandchildren Jaden, Davis, Clara, Emerson, and Riley. He will also be remembered by his brother Mike (Cindy) and sisters Lois Shaver and Rachel Charles.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at Charity Baptist Church from 12 until 2 PM. The funeral service will follow at 2 PM at the church. Burial will follow the service at West Concord Cemetery on Union Cemetery Road. The service will be officiated by Pastors Ben Creed, Don Burleyson, Marty Payton, and Tom Dolinger.

In lieu of flowers, you can make checks out to "Kathy Paxton" and send to: Charity Baptist Church 2420 Brantley Road Kannapolis, NC 28083.