Samuel M. Much

Samuel M. Much “Sam”

Samuel M. Much, devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. He was a man of quiet strength, unmatched kindness, and deep commitment—to his loved ones, his community, and the many passions that filled his life.

Beloved son of the late Dr. Jacob and Elizabeth (nee Donnelly) Much. Samuel is survived by his wife, Linda J. (nee Lubonia) Much; Sons, S. Jacob “Jake” Much (Amanda) and Matthew M. Much; Grandsons, Greyson and Cavin; siblings, Dr. Mandell Much and Elizabeth Horrocks. He was predeceased by his siblings, Priscilla Elko (later Albert), Deborah Jones (sur. Sterling), and Donald W. Much (sur. Theresa).

Sam was married for 58 years to his best friend and the love of his life, Linda. Their relationship was the foundation of a life rich in love, laughter, and shared adventures. Together, they built a thriving business and home filled with warmth, music, and joy, and created a legacy of family that will carry on their values for generations. At their Delaware beach home, dancing with each other during a sunset was heaven on earth.

Sam was the proud owner of a successful recreation company for 28 years. His dedication extended beyond business into service; he was a long-standing and active member of the Lions Club, serving as President. Through this role and many others, he gave generously to the community he loved.

He graduated from Marshall University with a Biology degree and remained an outdoorsman even after switching to a career in business. Sam found peace and joy in nature. He loved hiking in Tiadaghton State Forest, bicycling along the 70-mile Pine Creek Trail (never all at once, as he would say with a smile), and spending time in the mountains or at the beach—especially when he was with his favorite person, Linda. Bird watching was one of his quieter joys, and he had an eye for the beauty in the world around him and all living things.

His ability to take naps anytime on any surface needs to be studied. A rocky Maine shoreline or floor of the mailroom are just a couple of his curl up spots that he could “rest his eyes”. There are no unknown hot dog places that Sam has not visited in the mid-Atlantic. Boiled vs grilled, snap or no snap, all loved and welcomed by him and enjoyed with mustard, relish and onions as long as it wasn’t crooked. He claimed the best one was in Beckley, West Virginia “with everything”. He spent hours with books and had uncanny ability to retain everything he read for conversation later. There are very few that could tell a story like Sam. His family routinely enjoyed these sessions late into the night, with his very last but perhaps his very best story session on his 79th birthday this past Labor Day.

Sam was also a lover of the arts. He found deep appreciation in the music of the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Kennett Symphony, and he treasured trips to Broadway shows. The title of “best dancer” followed him from Ocean City’s boardwalk to fraternity parties in college and continued at any time there was a dance floor, and a time to celebrate. Linda will say that his dance moves caught her eye, and his kindness captured her heart. A natural tinkerer, he could fix just about anything and was always willing to lend a hand. “We need Pop Pop” was often the first thing said when something needed a repair. He loved “pop ins” which was just short surprise visit to see his grandsons for a quick hug, smile and an I love you.

He was a passionate golfer and fan of both the LPGA and PGA. Throughout his life he remained a devoted sports fan, particularly when cheering on his sons and grandsons from the sidelines at hockey and lacrosse games or talking Phillies with his son Matt—a source of great pride and joy for him.

Above all, Sam was a family man. His presence was a constant source of warmth and support. He faced the health challenges of the past decade with courage and grace, never losing his love for life or the people around him.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved and remembered.

Relatives and friends are invited to Samuel’s visitation on Thursday, October 2, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Assumption, 35 Old Eagle Road, Wayne, PA 19087 followed his funeral mass at 11:00 AM. A Private Interment at Edgewood Memorial Park, 325 Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills, PA and reception at the Radnor Hotel, 591 Lancaster Ave, St David’s, PA 19087 from 2:00 PM-5:00 PM

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Samuel’s name to the Fund for Penn’s Abramson Cancer Center - https://www.pennmedicine.org/giving/fund-for-abramson-cancer-center would be greatly appreciated.