Alfred F. Sama

With deep sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Alfred "Al" Sama, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, on September 14, 2024. He was 80 years old.

Born on June 26, 1944, in Wilmington, Delaware, Al grew up in the close-knit, Italian-American community of Penns Grove, New Jersey, surrounded by a loving and extended family that cultivated his lifelong passion for service, his love of food and his incredible work ethic.

Al was a proud graduate of Saint James elementary and high schools in Penns Grove, where in his younger years he perfected the beautiful cursive penmanship he kept throughout his life and where, during his teen years, he was a football team captain and homecoming king. His talents and drive led him to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Engineering and played varsity football.

Following his graduation from Kings Point, Al served his country as a member of the U.S. Merchant Marines - supporting American troops by delivering supplies overseas during the Vietnam War. His travels as a Merchant Marine took him around the world to both Asia and South America - an experience he fondly recalled while watching the Philadelphia Eagles' recent victorious performance in São Paulo.

After his Merchant Marine service, Al earned his MBA at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. This advanced education prepared him for a distinguished career in business operations, where he held leadership positions in the chemical, aerospace, and transportation industries. Known for his professionalism, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Al was admired by colleagues and friends alike.

Alfred was a cherished son of Francis Bruno Sama and Alda Sama (née Clemente) and the devoted brother of Frank Sama Jr., Ronald Sama, and Rose Anna Albertini (née Sama). He shared a beautiful marriage with his beloved wife, Donna Marie Sama (née Kowalewski), with whom he built a life full of love.

Al's pride and joy were his family. He is survived by his son, Andrew Joseph Sama, and daughter-in-law, Julia (née Kelly); his stepchildren, Mark Daddazio and Jennifer Rakus (née Daddazio), and her husband, Christopher. He adored his role as “Pop Pop” to his three grandchildren—Devon, Jamison, and Carson Sama—never missing an opportunity to spoil them and even introducing them to the concept of "ice cream for dinner."

Al was passionate about sports, particularly his beloved Phillies and Eagles. He also loved Notre Dame football. He was an avid reader of history books, always eager to deepen his knowledge. He enjoyed daily walks with Donna around their community of Old Forge Crossing in Devon, PA, and found joy in traveling on special trips to Alaska, Hawaii, and Mackinac Island in particular.

Al's faith played a central role in his life. He was a devoted member of St. Isaac Jogues Church in Wayne, PA, where he was a dedicated parishioner. He also served on the board and finance committee of the Old Forge Crossing community and was a proud historical reenactor at Valley Forge Park. Even in retirement, Al remained dedicated to service, working as a school bus driver for special needs students—a role he found deeply meaningful.

Alfred Sama’s legacy is one of love, integrity, service, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

Relatives and friends are invited to Al's Visitation 9:00-10:00 AM on Friday, September 20, 2024 at St. Isaac Jogues Church, 50 W. Walker Rd., Wayne, PA 19087, followed by his Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM. Interment SS Peter & Paul Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society - https://www.cancer.org/ - in Al’s memory.