Brenda Jean Sams

Brenda Jean Sams, 84, peacefully entered into rest on December 11, 2025, at her home in Wagener, South Carolina, with her loving family by her side.

Born on July 19, 1941, in Elizabethton, Tennessee, Brenda was the daughter of the late Patton Dotson Bradshaw Jr. and Margaret Pauline Bradshaw. She was preceded in death by her brother, Patton Dotson Bradshaw III (Mike). She is survived by her sister, Beverly Jane Arp.

Mrs. Sams married the love of her life, the late Stanley Lee Sams, and together they shared 58 years of marriage. Their life together took them to many places around the world, allowing her to enjoy memorable experiences most people only dream of. She was a devoted homemaker and a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Above all, Brenda cherished time with her family. As a devout Christian, Brenda’s faith was a guiding presence in her life, reflected in the kindness she showed to others and in the love and values with which she raised her family.

She is survived by her children, Deborah Jean Leonard (Kevin), Rebekah Anne Carrier (Timothy), and Timothy Lee Sams. Mrs. Sams is also survived by her grandchildren, Megan Stidham (Jonathan), Amanda Leverett (Teddy), Eric Carrier, Madeline Sams, and EmmaLee Sams, and by her great-grandchildren, Makenzie Stidham, Ryder Leverett, and Hadley Leverett. In addition, she is survived by several nieces and nephews.

A private funeral service will be held for Mrs. Sams. Arrangements are being made by Fairhaven Funeral Home.