Mr. Samuel Davidson

Samuel Martin Davidson, 87, of Charlotte, NC died on Friday April 22, 2016 at Mercy Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was the son of the late Ella Brimer Davidson and James Campbell Davidson. Born in Clover, S. C., he graduated from Clover High School and served in the U. S. Army from July, 1947 until June, 1950. Sam spent most of his working career with Southern Engineering Company where he retired as Chief Estimator after thirty-nine years.

Sam was a long time member of Amity Presbyterian Church. He was very active there, having served as ruling elder, church treasurer, and as a member of various committees. He was honored in 2015 when his congregation selected him as the “outstanding older adult”. Sam was also known at Amity as the “light man”, as he replaced light bulbs in the various buildings of the church for many years. He and his wife, Peggy, delivered Friendship Trays for over twenty years.

“Papa” as he was affectionately known, loved his family, and amused his children and grandchildren over the years with his many little antics, such as wiggling his ears, tightening heads, and letting the walking man and wind-up toy perform. He also excelled at making “napkin sculptures”, as a follow up to many family meals. At family Christmas gatherings, a tradition for Sam and his brothers, Jim and Bud, was to sing Christmas carols for the group. Always totally off key, it was entertainment for all.

Sam loved the outdoors and all that it entailed. He was a lifelong hunter and fisherman, and especially enjoyed rabbit hunting. He was an accomplished vegetable gardener, often having gardens in several locations around town. He and Peggy liked to travel and were able to make it to all fifty states and many foreign destinations.

Sam was a member and past master of Masonic Lodge #676. He spent many years there coaching his future Masonic Brothers, six of whom will be serving as pallbearers.

He also was a member of Scottish Rite Bodies and was recognized by both groups for fifty years of service.

He is survived by his wife of sixty three years, Peggy H. Davidson, son Martin (Hilary), and daughter Sara Davidson (Joe Girting), four grandsons: Jake Palmertree (Ashley), Spencer Davidson, Grant Davidson, A. J. Girting and three great-granddaughters: Lucy, Stella and Amelie. Also surviving him are brothers Jim (Carolyn), Bud (Betty), and Johnny Guy. He was predeceased by a sister, Marcene Davidson Little.

The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6 to 8 pm at McEwen Funeral Home, 5716 Monroe Rd. Service for Sam will be at Amity Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, April 27, beginning at the graveside at 11:00 AM. A memorial service will follow in the sanctuary, with a reception concluding in Johnston Hall.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Amity Presbyterian Church, 2805 N. Sharon Amity, Charlotte, N. C. 28205.