Leslie Perry Samuels

Mr. Samuels is survived by Martha, his beloved wife of 53 years; his daughter, Jenni Haverda and her husband, Gary; grandchildren, Macy, Colton, Shelby and Raven.

He is preceded in death by his son, Garry Leslie Samuels and his parents Leslie and Alma Samuels.

As he is known to all who met him, Perry leaves behind a legacy of generosity and leadership that will be missed by family, friends and employees.

Mr. Samuels was the CEO of Samuels Glass Company, which was founded by his family in San Antonio in 1914 and which has been successfully owned and operated by the Samuels family for the past 90 years. Mr. Samuels was a respected leader in the local glass business as well as the national scene.

He was a record breaking track star and outstanding football player at Jefferson High School and took those talents to the University of Texas where he broke track and field records there as well and was a star on the Longhorn's Football team. He was signed by George Halas and the Chicago Bears for a brief professional football career before being drafted into the army. Mr. Samuels also served in the U.S. Navy and played football for both branches of the service.

Mr. Samuels was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. He was a lifetime member of the San Antonio Livestock Association and purchased many animals at the annual auction from South Texas youngsters.

He was an enthusiastic member of the Pearsall/Dilley ranch community, spending many happy hours at his beloved ranch hunting and working his livestock.

He was a member of the San Antonio Anglers Club and chaired the Annual Kids Fishing contest at Brackenridge Park for over 30 years. He contributed both his time and money to make this event an exciting day for thousands of South Texas underprivileged youngsters as they caught fish out of the San Antonio River.

Perry coached Pony League Baseball and Girls Softball, was a member of the Downtown Optimists Club, the Longhorn Foundation; a lifetime member of the Texas Exes Alumni Association.

The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses at Northeast Baptist Hospital for their wonderful care.

Perry's family request that, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, the Juvenile Diabetes Association or the charity of your choice.

Pallbearers: Joe Wofford, Mike Manuppelli, Charley Parker, Gary Haverda, Colton Haverda, and Mel Shook. Honorary Pallbearers: Bill Grooms, Bob Jorgensen, Tom Stolhandske, George Fleet, Gene Weik, Tom Riley, Johnny Pollok, Ted Riggs, and all employees and retirees of Samuels Glass Company.