He was born April 7, 1997, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Lisa Ann Funderburg (Manion) and Stuart Edward Funderburg. Sam grew up in Springfield with his parents and three sisters—Katie, Maddie, and Healy. He attended St. Agnes School, Lincoln Magnet School, and Springfield High School, from which he graduated in 2015.
Sam studied economics at Colby College in Waterville, Maine, where he also was a member of the men’s golf team. After graduating from Colby in 2019, he moved to Chicago, where he worked in consulting and software sales.
Sam was an avid golfer who grew up playing courses around Springfield and the surrounding area. He had many achievements in golf, including becoming a two-time IHSA state qualifier and two-time High School City champion. In addition to golf, he enjoyed playing ping-pong, being outdoors, going for long walks, reading, watching sports and documentaries, and spending time with family and friends. He was a St. Louis Cardinals fan and got to see three World Series and an MLB All-Star Game. Sam also loved traveling and was able to visit Argentina, Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, and many U.S. states—often on golf trips with friends.
Sam had a quick wit, a kind heart, a generous spirit, and a winning smile—literally, as he was for many years the reigning champion of the Illinois State Fair’s “Smile Contest.” He is loved by so many and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Sam is survived by his parents; sisters, Katie Funderburg (James Coleman), Maddie Funderburg (Nathan Gerowitz), and Healy Funderburg; grandparents, JoAnn Hibbs, Tommy and Chris Manion, and Russell Funderburg; aunts and uncles, Lori Barker, Kyle Manion, Doug Hibbs (Taffy Robbins), Rochelle Funderburg, Theresa (Russell) Morgan, and Tracey (Mike) Boyer; cousins, Jake (Jamie) Barker, Riley Barker, Layne Manion, Andrew Morgan, and Michelle Boyer; his beloved dog, Moe; and many, many friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Verlin Hibbs; grandmother, Judy Funderburg; and uncle, Lanny Barker.
A celebration of Sam’s life will be held from 1:00pm to 4:00pm at Lincoln Greens Golf Course—Springfield High School’s home course—on May 26, 2024. The event will be an open house with brief remarks at 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Springfield High School boys’ golf team, 101 S. Lewis St. Springfield, IL 62704 attention: Meg Kontio. Checks can be made payable to Springfield High School, memo line: SHS boys’ golf.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West. 217-544-5424
