Samuel Eugene "Sambo" Southerland Jr.

Sambo was born September 2, 1984, in Mobile, Alabama and made his home in the Tanner Williams community with his childhood sweetheart, Michele Mason Southerland; his son and buddy, Carson Samuel; and his newborn daughter, Caylin Brooke. He cherished his wife and children and took great pride in providing for them and loving them as only he could do.

Sam was a loving husband and daddy and was always there for his family and friends in so many ways. He loved the outdoors, especially hunting and playing ball with his son. He enjoyed picking the guitar and singing and he tried to dance. Sam had perfected the use of his Green Egg smoker and enjoyed cooking for his family and friends. Sambo was such a kind, positive person. He lit up a room with his presence. His enthusiasm for life touched so many. We will always remember his infectious smile and his loving and caring personality. He was a great example to his family and friends and he will be so dearly missed.

Sam worked at S & S Sprinkler Company and previously Triple “A” Fire Protection. Sam’s friends and fellow workers showed their love and appreciation for Sam this past Saturday by working in his honor on the church building that is under construction at Sam’s home church of Tanner Williams Assembly of God. Sam would be so proud of his friends and how he rallied them together to work for him one last time.

Sambo is survived by his mother, Ann Perry (Kimmie); father, Samuel Southerland, Sr. (Anne); brother and sister-in-law, Joshua and Natalie Southerland; nephew, Raymond Gage Southerland; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Phillip and Cindy Mason; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Chip and Brandi Smith; niece, Kinley Smith and a multitude of family and friends. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Marie Huggins Howell; and his paternal grandfather, Raymond O’Neal Driskell.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, April 22nd at 10:00 am at Pierce Creek Cemetery on Tanner Williams Road. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 am at Tanner Williams Assembly of God Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to take part in something very dear to Sam’s heart, the construction of the new church at Tanner Williams Assembly of God. Sam gave his time, his talent, and his money to support this construction project because he wanted this new church for his children and you are welcome to contribute to his legacy. Donations in Sam’s honor can be made to Tanner Williams Assembly of God Building Fund, 14440 Tanner Williams Road, Wilmer, AL 36587. Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com. Arrangements by Radney Funeral Home, 3155 Dauphin Street, Mobile, Alabama 36606.