Sam Anderson

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Sam Anderson Obituary (2023) - Pryor, Oklahoma (gather.app)

Samuel Delano Anderson of Pensacola, OK passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on June 28, 2023. Sam lost the love of his life, Martha, less than 6 months ago and since her death prayed daily asking God to take him home. God granted his wish and now he is in the arms of his Lord and Savior with Martha at his side. 

Sam was born in Stilwell, OK to Charles and Lennie Anderson. He was the youngest of 5 children. His parents both died before Sam’s 6^th birthday. His aunt and uncle, Lillie & Jeff (Unc) Carson, took in Sam and raised him as their own. His other siblings were separated but eventually were able to locate each other and remained close for many years. Sam loved his Aunt Lillie and “Unc”. Growing up very poor taught Sam to appreciate non-material things, and he remained very humble his entire life despite becoming successful. After attending business school and getting a job, he bought his first car and unbelievably gave it to his aunt & uncle. 

Sam married Martha Wheeler of Pensacola, OK in 1954 at the age of 21. After owning a store at Sam’s Corner in Locust Grove, he worked for Rocket Freight lines and eventually they ran Sam’s Grocery and Tire in Pensacola until they retired at the age of 51. From then on Sam and Martha were rarely separated and embarked on many adventures. They spent many months in Colorado, riding thousands of miles on bikes and ATV’s and caught hundreds of trout each year. They enjoyed the many friends and family that joined them each year. They also traveled to many places such as Alaska, Hawaii, New York, California, and even as far away as Switzerland. 

Sam and Martha are most remembered for their walk with the Lord. They were instrumental in the growth of several churches with both teaching Sunday School for many years. Sam was also a deacon in several churches and dedicated his life to serving God. He faithfully studied his Bible daily and could quote many, many scriptures as well as recite entire chapters.   

Sam is survived by two sons, Gary Anderson & wife Vicki of Vinita, OK, Dean Anderson of Wagoner, OK; two daughters Brenda Jordan & husband Charles of Adair, OK; Sherry Risman & husband Jim of Disney, OK; six grandkids, Rainy, Shaney, Cambree, Matt, Sarah, & Tyler; eight great grandkids, Hunter, Carson, Harrison, Fallon, Whitley, Emily, Layla, & Landon; and many other relatives.  

Sam is preceded in death by his wife, Martha; parents, Charles and Lennie Anderson; aunt & uncle, Lillie & Jeff Carson; two brothers, Allen & Leonard; two sisters, Lucy Estes & Imogene Mayes; grandkids, Chris Weems and Piper Anderson as well as many other loving aunts, uncles, cousins and relatives.

Visitation: Wednesday, 7/5 from 6-8 at Shipman’s Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.  

Service: Thursday, 7/6, 10am at Utopia Baptist Church, Big Cabin, OK

Laid to rest: Ghormley Cemetery