Samuel Earl Lanham

Sam was a faithful servant of God, who lived his life with humility and boundless generosity.

Affectionately called “Big Dad”, Sam thrived as a husband, father, and grandfather, loving with gentleness and compassion. He was eager to provide a hug or be an ear to listen, and made you feel loved, whether a longtime friend or someone he’d just met.

Sam was born April 5, 1943, in Lubbock, Texas. He graduated from Monterey High School and played baseball at Wayland Baptist University, before transferring to Texas Tech to reunite with his high school sweetheart and wife of 61 years, Carole.

Sam was passionate about golf and played as often as he could. He was a loyal supporter of the Texas Tech Red Raiders and Los Angeles Dodgers.

For four decades, Sam served as a civilian with the United States Air Force. Over a decorated career he oversaw personnel and managed logistics at Tinker Air Force Base (OK), Reese Air Force Base (TX), and Randolph Air Force Base (TX).

Sam was preceded in death by his parents Monroe and Edith Lanham, and his brothers Jack and Bob.

He is survived by his wife Carole Lanham; their daughter Lisa Lanham; and their daughter Lori Lesikar, her husband Larry, and their children Evan Lesikar, and Amanda Brandenburg and her husband Jakob; Scott and Louise Haigler, and their children Sarah Beth Uhles and Laura Keogh.

Please join us to honor the life of Samuel Earl Lanham at an open house filled with stories, laughter, and light refreshments. We’ll be there to welcome you anytime between noon and 2:30 pm on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Canyon Springs Golf Course Pavilion, located at 24405 Wilderness Oak, San Antonio, TX 78258.

Bright colors and golf attire welcome in keeping with his vibrant personality and love for golf.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or First Tee golf of greater San Antonio.