Samuel B. Ealy

Samuel B. Ealy’s life began on December 11, 1941 in Fort Worth, Texas. He was the second of seven children born to the union of X.L. and Jewel Ealy.

He attended public schools and graduated from I.M. Terrell in 1960. Upon graduating high school, Sam attended Los Angeles City College. He then made his way back to Fort Worth, where he started his career in sales. Sam thrived in the sales industry, becoming the first black salesman employed by Kraft Foods in Fort Worth. Followed by employment at Skyvue Memorial Gardens and Cedar Hill Memorial Park. 

Samuel always had a passion for ministry. He received his ordination from Mayfield Missionary Baptist Church in 1976. He would then go on to receive his Bachelors degree in religion and philosophy from Texas Wesleyan University, before becoming the Pastor of El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Waxahachie, Texas. 

Sam had a servant’s heart, he enjoyed cooking and serving others so much that he opened his own business called Big Sam’s. where he was well known for his chicken fried steaks and fried catfish.

On August 28, 1971 Samuel married the love of his life, Noweta Taylor. To this union, one child was born. Together, they traveled to several states and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Sam also always enjoyed a good domino game. 

On December 28, 2023 the Lord called Samuel B. Ealy home where he was reunited with his parents, X.L. Ealy and Jewel Ealy; sister, Marjorie Cox; and his brothers, X.L. Ealy Jr., Wayne Ealy and George Ealy.

He leaves behind his wife for over 50 years, Noweta Ealy; daughters, Flenisia Ealy, Maria Russell, and Sharon Wray; sons, Dedrick Ealy and David Wray III; siblings, Claressa McBrown and Tunda Ealy; nine grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

In honor of Sam's life, a Funeral Service will be held at Skyvue Funeral Home, Mansfield, Texas on January 13th, 2024. The service will commence at 11:00 AM, providing an opportunity for friends, family, and colleagues to come together and celebrate his life. His legacy will then be commemorated with a Graveside Service at Skyvue Memorial Gardens, immediately following his funeral services.