Sybil Phillips Sams

Sybil Phillips Sams was born on February 18, 1928, in Lisman, Alabama, to Sigrid Jackson Phillips and Henry Jones Phillips. She later moved to Marietta, Georgia, where she attended Marietta High School, graduating in 1945.

On December 24, 1946, Sybil married the love of her life, Garvis Leon Sams, at Roswell Street Baptist Church in Marietta. Together they shared a devoted marriage and were blessed with one son, Garvis Leon Sams Jr. (1952–2025).

Garvis and Sybil became active members of First Baptist Church of Marietta in 1953. Sybil sang soprano in the choir for many years and coordinated countless weddings in the church chapel—work she took great pride in and cherished deeply.

Sybil was an avid tennis player and a proud member of several winning ALTA teams, remaining active in the sport well into her 80s. She also loved bridge and found great joy in teaching lessons, continuing to share her passion for the game until nearly age 90.

Throughout her life, Sybil formed deep and meaningful friendships with many remarkable women. She was a fiercely loyal friend, offering encouragement, prayer, and laughter to those she loved. Many of these dear friends now welcome her in Heaven, while others remain here holding her memory close.

Sybil is survived by her granddaughters, Amy Sams Lyda, Emily Sams Brown (Dan), and Alisha Sams Stark (Chuck); and her great-grandchildren, Sams Lyda, Rayme Brown, and Arden Brown. She is also survived by her nieces, Angela Lucas and Elaine Hubbard (John); her nephew, Thomas “Tommy” Lucas (Michelle Seo); her great-nephews, David Lucas and Mark Hutson (Katy Haynes); and her great-niece, Valerie Lucas Reeves (Mark).

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her son; her siblings, Henry Jackson “Jack” Phillips and Bonnie Lucas Jackson; and her nephew, Vernon “Vern” Lucas (Joan).

Sybil lived a life marked by grace, strength, faith, and unwavering love for her family.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity… Her children rise up and call her blessed.”

— Proverbs 31:25, 28

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Kennesaw Memorial Park, located at 1306 Whitlock Avenue NW, Marietta, GA 30064.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to 10 Women of Hope at the link provided: https://10womenofhope.org/.