In Loving Memory of Samuel G. Puryear, Sr.

Samuel G. Puryear, Sr. was called home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the age of 83. He passed peacefully in his home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Born on September 28, 1942, in Winston-Salem, NC, Samuel was the beloved son of the late Robert L. Puryear and Clara Barnes Puryear. Samuel was educated in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System before matriculating at Winston-Salem State University. There, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Education and achieved national recognition in golf as an All-CIAA performer and Small College All-American in 1964. Remarkably, he never lost a match during his collegiate career. In 2002, he was inducted into the WSSU Athletic Hall of Fame.

Samuel continued his education by earning a Master of Science Degree in Educational Administration from N.C. A&T State University, an Education Specialist Degree from Appalachian State University, and completed further studies at Wake Forest University, UNC-Chapel Hill, and UNC-Charlotte.

Samuel was a trailblazer in education. His career in education spanned 34 years with Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools. He began by teaching Math at Kernersville Junior High, later serving as Assistant Principal at Mt. Tabor, West Forsyth, and Parkland High Schools. He went on to make history as the first African American principal at Parkland High School before concluding his career as principal of South Park High School. He retired in 1997, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, mentorship, and dedication to students.

Samuel's service extended beyond education into the community. He was a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., a member of the NAACP, Ebony Hill Community Club, WSSU National Alumni Association, and various WSSU athletic organizations. He also served the City of Winston-Salem on the Coliseum Fairground Commission and as treasurer for the Winston Lake Golf Course Senior Golf Association.
His greatest devotion was to his faith. A lifelong member of Second Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, Samuel faithfully served as trustee and clerk for 63 years. He served the church tirelessly as they moved from 13 ½ St. and Claremont Ave. to their current location at 1751 New Walkertown Rd. He was a steadfast soldier of the Lord who prayed with and advised members combining his knowledge of scripture with his trademark sense of humor and wit.

Known for his love of golf, bowling, storytelling, and laughter, Samuel brightened every room he entered. His unique laugh and favorite saying—"Piece of cake"—will live on in the memories of his loved ones.

He was preceded in death by six brothers and three sisters: Robert, William, John Ed, Thomas, Carl, Earl, Mary P. Bailey, Betty P. Tillery, and Joann P. Yarborough.

Samuel is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Barbara Whiting Puryear; children, Samuel Jr. (LaRita) and Eric Sr. (Laura); grandchildren, Antonio, Brooke, Cameron, Eric Jr., Sanaa, Drew, and Christian; four great-grandchildren; one sister, Linda Eaton (John); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Samuel G. Puryear, Sr. will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, educator, leader, and friend. His faith, laughter, and legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at Russell Funeral Home.

Celebration of Life Services will be held at 1:00pm Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at Second Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery.  The family visitation will be held from 12:00pm until 1:00 pm on Wednesday at the Church.

In lieu of flowers, please scan to make a memorial contribution to the WSSU Men's Golf Program.