Sam Lavel Wingate

Sam Lavel Wingate, 84 of Baytown, TX went to be with the Lord and his late wife, Shirley on Sunday, August 19, 2018. He was born on September 30, 1933 in Highlands, TX to Gilbert and Elma Wingate. Sam spent much of his childhood in the woods and on the San Jacinto River with his three brothers. At the age of 17, he decided that serving his country was what he needed to do, so he joined the United States Navy, from 1950-1954 where he served in the Korean War. His loyalty to his country remained strong throughout his life. His values included great respect for the flag and all it stands for. At the age of 22, he met the love of his life, Shirley Williams. They were married 61 years until the time of her passing in December 2017. Sam and Shirley had two children, Donnie and Kelly. Sam, along with his family spent many hours on the lake fishing and in the woods hunting where he shared his passion and knowledge of the outdoors. He was able to identify almost any tree, bird, insect, or fish and he could measure the spread of deer antlers at a glance. He had immense dedication to his late wife. During the last five years of Shirley's life, he never wavered in his commitment of his vow to remain devoted in times of sickness and in health. He spent his days by her side, even when she no longer recognized him. Sam was a hard working, tough, outgoing, friendly man who rarely met a stranger and always had his fishing pole ready to go at a moment's notice. He was also a member of the Goose Creek Masonic Lodge #1192.

He is survived by his children, Donnie Wingate and wife Angel, Kelly Dando and husband Frank, grandchildren,, Leah Richards and husband Jody, Daniel Wingate, Derek Wingate, Elyse Cho and husband Peter, Ashley Dubois, Lacey Newton and husband Marcus, Braden Dando and wife Kimberlie, Tiffani Dando; 8 great grandchildren; brother Ed Wingate and wife Hazel; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his late wife, Shirley Wingate and two brothers, Charles and Joe Wingate. The family would like to acknowledge the tremendous outpouring of community support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please donate to Baytown Crime Stoppers, Case #2018-47713 at 281-422-5152 or send donations to Baytown Crime Stoppers, P.O. Box 491, Baytown, TX 77521-0491.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 24, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Second Baptist Church, 6227 North Main, Baytown, TX with a visitation beginning at 10 a.m.