Samuel Woodruff

Samuel (Sam) Woodruff, aged 78, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, surrounded by his family at The Viridian. Sam was born in Arkansas to the parents of Theodore Woodruff and Irene Pectol Woodruff. Sam married his high school sweetheart Edith Faye McFadden Woodruff July 6, 1963, and had celebrated 62 years of marriage.

Sam was predeceased by his parents, brothers Jimmy Dale Woodruff, Andrew Woodruff, sisters Mandy Thompson and Joni Lowery, and one step granddaughter Kimberly Gillette Danielson.

Sam has left behind a loving family consisting of his wife, Faye, and their only child Tammy Woodruff Gillette (Gary). He also leaves behind a grandson Donyphn Ryan (Leanna) Foster of Midland, Michigan, a granddaughter Chelsea Nicole Levy of Garner, NC and a step grandson Gary Gillette ll (Jessica) of Hamilton, MT. He is survived by one sister, Judy Williamson of Memphis, Tn. Great grandsons, Isaiah Levy, Silas Foster, and step great grandsons Cade Danielson, Chase Danielson and Tyler Gillette.

Sam moved as a young man from Arkansas to Memphis to start a career in the Life Insurance business. He excelled by winning multiple national awards and eventually moving into a Field Vice Presidents position with Monumental Life Insurance. One of his greatest career accomplishments was being chosen to speak at a National Conference in Las Vegas with Lou Holtz. Sam was a quiet man but always had a story to tell or some words of wisdom to pass on if asked. He loved his family deeply and was always generous to those in need. Mr. Sam as he was known to many was smart and kind to all that knew him. He was very proud to be a member of the New Bern Chapter Sons of the American Revolution. Sam was a man of faith, loved going to church and discussing theology.

The family is planning a Celebration of Life after the New Year. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting any donations be made to either St. Judes Children’s Hospital or the New Bern Chapter Sons of the American Revolution.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Samuel Woodruff.