Sammie "Sam" Houston Gracey of Clinton, TN, departed this temporary home and went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on July 30, 2013.
Born in Davidson, TN, he was the son of the late L.F. Gracey and Mary Elizabeth Gracey. In addition to his parents, Sam was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Geneva (Drewery) Gracey and his seven (7) brothers. Mr. Gracey is survived by his daughter, Dianne Gracey-Palmer, Johnson City, TN.
Mr. Gracey's career entailed that of being a World War II Veteran for the United States Navy in the South Pacific. After serving his country for twenty (20) years, he retired in 1963. Returning home, he spent the remainder of his employment history (15yrs), working at the Oak Ridge Atomic Museum (ORNL) and Union Carbide (Y-12 and K-25).
Throughout the latter part of his life (after military 1968), Sam was a constant "warrior" for God. His life was guided by his faith and the Golden Rule. He never missed an opportunity to express his love, trust and faith in God. You often heard him say the best job he ever had was "working for the Lord". A member of New Salem Baptist Church since 1968, Sam devoted his time in serving as Sunday School Superintendent, Church Deacon, and Church Greeter, witnessing for Christ to new community residents, telling them about God and inviting them to church. His unwavering faith was an inspiration to all that encountered his presence. This faith provided courage for Sam throughout the remainder of his life.
Funeral services will be conducted at the Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton, TN, on Friday, August 2nd at 8 o'clock with Reverend Kenny Rains and Reverend Mark Gallaher officiating. Prior to the service, the family will receive friends from 6-8:00p.m. Graveside services will be held Saturday, August 3rd at 11:00a.m. at Anderson Memorial Gardens. Those desiring to attend the graveside services may assemble at the Holley Gamble Funeral Home by 10:30a.m.
Pallbearers will be his nephews, Gary Simpson, Mike Anderson, Tony Anderson, Johnny Anderson, Randy Cupp, James Drewery and Terry Jeffers. Honorary pallbearer will be Eddie Keller.
A special thanks is extended by daughter Dianne to her aunts and uncle, Alma Dodd, Ann Jeffers and Buddy and Peggy Cupp; her cousins, Teresa Keller, Beverly Clark and Melisa Anderson; Caregivers, Shelia Gholston and the staff at C.B. Helping Hands Ministries; Reverend Kenny Rains, New Salem Baptist Church congregation and devoted friend, Dennis Smith for demonstrating their constant concern, love and care to her father.