December 23, 1943-October 24, 2024
Samuel Thomas Weir passed away on Friday, October 24, 2024 at Baptist Medical Center in Jackson, MS. He was born on December 23, 1943 in Newton, MS. His parents were Mary Jenkins Weir and Henry Selby Weir. He grew up in the small community of Garlandville, MS, attending school in Newton. After graduating from Newton High School, he attended Jones Junior College where he played football and is in the Hall of Fame. He went on to graduate from Samford University with a degree in pharmacy. Sam enjoyed his work as a pharmacist, in a career that spanned over fifty years. He was the owner of Standard Drugs in Bay Springs, MS for many years and then worked for several different pharmacies, including Mr. Discount Drugs in Meridian, MS, until he retired at age 79.
Growing up in a rural community, Sam developed many hobbies and pastimes including woodworking, carpentry and working on cars. He could do anything he set his mind to! Sam also had a great love for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing - a tradition that he passed on to his children and grandchildren. He was a founding member of Garlandville Hunting Club, where he spent many happy fall and winter days with his hunting buddies. In the spring, Sam enjoyed attending the annual Hoot Owl Calling Contest for a week of fishing and fellowship. Sam played sports as a young man. He was an excellent football and baseball player both at Newton High School and Jones Junior College. One of Sam’s fondest memories to recount was playing at the old Sugar Bowl in New Orleans when his Jones Bobcat team played Tulane in the 1960’s. As an adult, he most enjoyed attending sporting events in which his children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren were involved.
Sam was a friend to all and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. He had a keen intellect and a competitive spirit which drove his success in all aspects of his life - particularly in family trivia and other games at holiday gatherings!
Most importantly, Sam was a family man. He loved his family dearly, always ready with whatever advice or assistance was needed. Known as ‘Pop’ to his grandchildren, he provided wise and loving guidance to several generations.
Sam loved the Lord and was an active member of Hickory Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon and in many other capacities.
Sam was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene Cochran Weir; his brother, Selby Weir, Jr and his sister, Sandra Weir O’Neill.
He is survived by his first wife, Linda Kirby of Flowood, MS; his children, Anna Brand (Walter) of Flowood, MS, Sam Weir, Jr (Karla) of Brandon, MS, Carrie Spears (Jonathan) of Decatur, AL, Elon Espey (Keith) of Chunky, MS, Dawn Cavenaugh (Adrian) of Brandon, MS; fourteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, from 9:30 A.M. until 11:30 A.M. at Hickory Baptist Church, 197 Jackson St., Hickory, MS. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 11:30 A.M. at Hickory Baptist Church. The burial followed in Hickory Cemetery in Hickory, MS. Dr. Randy Rich and Rev. Jonathan Spears officiated. Newton County Funeral Home - South was in charge of arrangements. 601-635-3200.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hickory Baptist Church’s Lottie Moon Christmas Fund, Hickory MS.
An online guestbook may be signed at www.newtoncountyfuneralhome.com
Paid Obituary
