Deacon Samuel Seridan Young,Sr.

The Legacy of Samuel Sheridan Young, Sr. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalms 46:1 Samuel Sheridan Young of Richmond, Virginia was born January 17, 1943 in Martinsville, Virginia to the late George and Mary Young. He went to be with the Lord on Tuesday morning, April 30, 2013. He was preceded in death by four brothers, John Vernon, George Daniel, Albert, Edward, and one sister, Dorothy “Dot” Wall. Samuel gave his life to the Lord at an early age and became united with High Street Baptist Church in Martinsville. Upon graduating from Albert Harris High School in Martinsville, he attended Virginia State College where he received a B.A. degree in Industrial Arts Education. Samuel later earned a Masters degree in Industrial Education. While at Virginia State College, he met and married the love of his life, Sonja Purdie. They married in November 1966, and were blessed with two amazing children, Sammy, Jr., and Stacy. After moving from Danville to Richmond, Samuel and Sonja joined Fourth Baptist Church where he served faithfully for many years as a Sunday School teacher and deacon. He worked in the Richmond Public Schools at John F. Kennedy High School, John Marshall High School, and Henderson Middle School. After retiring, he often substituted at the Richmond Technical Center. Being the active and energetic person that he was, Samuel served in the capacity of assisting others whenever needed. He had such a big heart. He was a very loving, giving, and helpful person who touched many lives through his amicable personality, warm smile, his wit and charm. He was truly a servant. Because he had a heart for the youth, Samuel served as the Area Director for Richmond Young Life for approximately 25 years. He could easily engage in conversation with anyone that he met. Being the jokester that he was, he was always able to make others laugh. His Purdie in-laws loved and adored him. He was very family oriented and enjoyed spending time with his loved ones. He especially enjoyed going to his grandchildrens’ sporting events. Being reared in a Christian home, Samuel always had faith in God and delighted in discussing His Word. He and Sonja participated in a small group Bible Study with close friends for many years. Left to cherish his memory in their hearts are his loving and devoted wife, Sonja; one son, Samuel, Jr. (Nikki), of Chester; one daughter, Stacy, of Glen Allen; two grandchildren, Trey and Tyler, of Chester; one brother, Posey Young (Rhonda) of Richmond; three sisters, Sue Gill, Marion Preston (Louis) of Martinsville, and Mattilene of Roanoke; three sisters in-law, Jacqueline Lewis (Bland) of Hampton, Lorraine Dawkins (Nolan) of Alexandria, Beverly (Kirby) of Ivor; one brother, L. V. Purdie of Ivor; two devoted friends, Colonel McKee and Sam Mills, and a host of nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. The Last Request Please don’t say that I gave up, just say that I gave in. Don’t say I lost the battle it was God’s war to lose or win. Please don’t say how good I was but that I did my best. Just say I tried to do what’s right to give the most no less. Don’t be concerned about me now, I’m well with God, I made it home. Don’t talk about what I could have been; for it’s over and it’s done. Just see to all my families needs. When you draw me as a saint, I’ve done some good and some wrong so use up all your paint--not just bright and light tones; use some gray and use some dark. In fact, don’t put me down on canvas, just paint me in your heart. Do not just remember the good times; some were happy and some sad. But if you must do something, then I have just one request. Forgive me for the wrongs I’ve done and with all the love that’s left. Thank God for my soul is resting. Thank God for I’ve been blessed. Know that I love you . . . Samuel Your husband, father, grandfather and friend Samuel was a man that was kind, loving, very caring, compassionate and a supportive person who loved having fun. He cared deeply for his family and all of his loved ones to a great extent. Samuel was the backbone, the strength, and the light of his family. He gave love to everyone around him. Samuel touched so many in so many ways and will be truly missed by all, however don’t fret. She will always be with us deep in the recesses of our mind and in our hearts until we too die and meet her in the afterlife. We will never allow the light to flicker and continue to carry her torch to eternity. We personally, want to thank each and every one of you who are here today, attending his Homegoing Celebration Service. While he may no longer be with us physically, just remember that he will always be with us in both spirit and memory.

Tributes

Deacon Samuel Seridan Young,Sr.

January 17, 1943 - April 30, 2013