Samuel May

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of our beloved Dad and Papa, **Samuel “Sam” May**, who passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, at the age of 87, cuddled in the arms of the woman he loved for most of his life.

Sam was born on August 4, 1938, in Liverpool, England. At 18 years old, in a dance hall full of music and energy, Sam boldly walked up to a young woman named Enid Tabrah and said, *“Come on kid, loan us your body for a wobble.”* That moment sparked a love story that would span nearly seven decades. Sam proposed to Enid on October 31, 1958, and they were married on August 4, 1962 — beginning a lifetime of devotion, laughter, and unwavering partnership.

Together, Sam and Enid built a beautiful and lively family. They welcomed their first son, Ken (Irelda). After joining The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they moved to Canada, where their family continued to grow: Craig; Wayne (d. 2022); Scott (Catherine); Lisa Moody (Paul); Kevin; Rachel (Gibson); Philip; Bruce (Christine); and Wanda Benvin (Mario).

Their journey eventually led them to Vancouver Island, where their home became a gathering place filled with laughter, faith, and the joyful noise of children. Sam and Enid were blessed with 22 grandchildren, along with many bonus grandchildren who were loved just the same. Their home was always full, and Sam wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Sam worked faithfully as a bus driver for numerous companies, finishing his career with the Regional District of Nanaimo. He was known for his steady presence, love of candy, strong work ethic, and the way he connected with people from all walks of life. Even in retirement, Sam wasn’t ready to slow down. He went to work at Walmart as a greeter, where he showed up every morning with a joke to tell and a warm smile to share. He genuinely loved meeting people and brightening their day.

Sam was funny, kind, and incredibly generous. In a profound act of selflessness, he donated one of his kidneys to help a fellow member of his church — a reflection of the quiet, steadfast faith he lived by every day. Sam was also the first to offer a helping hand: fixing a car, picking up a stranded friend, or giving someone the shirt off his back.

He was a man who never let life pass him by. He embraced every moment with humor, gratitude, and a twinkle in his eye. Whether surrounded by family, serving in his church, working, or simply sharing a laugh, Sam lived fully and loved deeply.

Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His legacy lives on in the strong, loving family he and Enid created, and in the countless lives he touched with his generosity, jokes, and joyful spirit.

Sam, Dad and Papa, you will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.