Sams was born April 17, 1949, in Covington, the son of the late Lacy Dale Sams Sr. and Doris Kessinger Sams.

He graduated from Covington High School in 1967 and went on to graduate from the former Dabney S. Lancaster Community College in 1969, Emory and Henry College in 1971 and later the University of Virginia.

He taught social studies and coached at Parry McCluer High School before being named assistant principal at Natural Bridge High School in 1978. He later became an assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent and superintendent of schools in Bath County, retiring from his career in education in 2000. He moved to the Mt. Jackson area where he has resided for the last 25 years.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sarah Bayne Sams; and his brother, Steve Sams of Covington.

A private family memorial service will be conducted at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Loving Funeral Home. A full obituary can be seen at www.lovingfuneralhome1913. com.