Albert "Sam" Reyer

Albert "Sam" Reyer, age 88, of Gulfport, MS, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home, surrounded by his family, on Sunday, March 2, 2025. His passing followed a recent diagnosis of esophageal cancer.

Born and raised in Gulfport, Mississippi, Sam lived a life defined by gentle resilience, unwavering devotion, and an abiding love for his family and community. He briefly served his country in the military, receiving an honorable discharge, although he chose to keep his service private.

Sam spent many years as a dedicated county employee with the roads department, operating heavy machinery with skill and precision. Outside of work, he was a true craftsman and outdoorsman. Sam was an avid fisherman, finding peace and joy on the water. His talents extended to building, gardening, and crafting, where he created everything from functional casting nets to quaint home furniture.

A devout Lutheran, Sam was a dedicated member of his church, volunteering his time and talents to serve others. He was a kind-hearted friend and neighbor, always willing to lend a helping hand.

More than anything, Sam was a loving and supportive son, brother, husband and grandfather, and a deeply influential father figure to both his stepson, Doug, and his granddaughter, Dana.

Sam was known for his constant and positive presence in Doug's life. Even before marrying Evelyn in 1989, he became a surrogate father figure to young Doug, offering wisdom, companionship, and unwavering support from an early age. Sam took Doug fishing, spent countless hours with him, and consistently looked out for him, fostering a bond that transcended formal family ties.

For Dana, Sam, alongside her beloved grandmother Evelyn, stepped into a crucial role, becoming the stable and loving second-parents she needed. He provided a safe harbor, offering unconditional love, gentle guidance, and the steadfast support of a devoted grandfather and second father. Sam taught her the values of kindness, respect, and responsibility, modeling what it meant to be a loving grandparent and a man of integrity. His quiet strength, silly humor, and compassionate heart created a lasting bond, shaping her into the person she is today. His unwavering presence and emphasis on "togetherness" were pillars of strength for the entire family.

Sam was a man of gentle spirit, known for his soft-spoken nature, lighthearted humor, and genuine kindness. He found joy in playing guitar and singing, sharing jokes, and lending a compassionate ear. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

In his final years, Sam lived in Hampton Roads, VA with close-knit family. Despite facing the challenges of end-stage dementia, he remained cheerful and happy, bringing joy to those around him. The family is grateful to have been able to provide him with loving care and support, allowing him to pass peacefully at home, surrounded by those he loved.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents, William and Cecelia; his adored wife of 32 years, Evelyn; brothers, Douglas, John, and George Sr.; and sisters, Stella, Ella, Willie, Lillian, Mary and Cecelia. 

Sam is survived by his stepson, Doug, and daughter-in-law, Laura; granddaughter, Dana, and her husband, Derek; great-grandchildren, Victor and Mira; his siblings, Charles, Robert, Dorothy and Rosemary; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family will receive friends at Bethel Lutheran Church, 2521 Pass Rd, Biloxi, MS 39531 from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Funeral Service will begin at 11:00 a.m., due to inclement weather there will be a farewell at the church followed by fellowship and light refreshment.

Sam will be placed, alongside his late wife, for his final rest at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens, 8910 Carl Legett Road, Gulfport, Mississippi, 39503. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to Lutheran World Relief, P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21297-1061, whose mission meant so very much to Sam.