Samuel Junior Dellinger

Samuel Dellinger Lenoir - Samuel Junior Dellinger, following an extended illness, shed his earthly bonds on July 09, 2018 surrounded by a loving and grateful family. Sam was born in the Careys Flat Community to the late Samuel Dellinger and Julia Emmerette Coffey Dellinger on December 06, 1929. He was also preceded in death by brothers Thomas, John and Bobbie as well as two sisters, Ida Dellinger Greer and Viola (Ola) Dellinger. Sam is survived by his loving childhood sweetheart and wife of 66 years, Dorothy Jean Coffey Dellinger and sons Charles and wife Sherry of Lenoir, Doug and wife Monica of Frederick, MD, Randy Dellinger of Lenoir, and daughters Debra Lynn Dellinger Thomas and husband Daniel of Cumming, GA and Danielle Renee Dellinger Ragsdale and husband Renard of Atlanta, GA. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Dustin and wife Cynthia, Derek, and Steven and great grandchildren Desiree, Drew, Delaney, Dylan, and Dalton Dellinger as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Sam served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict, stationed in Germany and later retired as a Staff Sergeant in the NC National Guard with the 1540th Transportation Battalion in Lenoir. He took great pride in his military service and civic duties. Upon returning from the Army Sam worked in various positions – Kent Coffey Manufacturing, Smith Crossroads Ford, Lenoir News-Topic and later retired from the U. S Postal Service, the first of a long line of Dellinger’s and close family members who would work in the Postal trade. Following his retirement, he also worked at Bi-Lo Foods for a number of years where he made many close acquaintances and always had a good word to share. Sam had a passion for camping and passed that love of the outdoors and adventure along to his children who have passed along to their children. He loved music – in the home everything could be heard from Glen Miller to the Osborne Brothers, and during the late 60’s one could hear the Beatles or Simon and Garfunkel filling the air. He particularly enjoyed old time mountain music and later developed a deep love for gospel music. He had an infectious smile and heartfelt laugh and never met a stranger for long. He was an avid member of the Lenoir Community Church for the past 39 years where he again fell in love, this time with his savior – many of the congregation remarked how Sam could always be counted on to greet you with a firm handshake and a great smile, never missing a chance to testify about his faith. The family will receive friends at Lenoir Community Church located at 1002 Lower Creek Drive Lenoir, NC from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Saturday, July 14, 2018 followed by a service and celebration of Sam’s life at 3:00 PM. He will be interred at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain, N. C. with full military honors on Tuesday, July 17, 2018 at 2:00. Military Honors will be provided by the Caldwell County Veterans Honor Guard. The family extends their sincere gratitude to Drs. Young and Dew, as well as the nurses, therapists and others at Caldwell Memorial Hospital involved with Sam’s care during his last days for their attention, care, compassion and respect shown to Sam and the family. The family also wishes to thank the Veterans Administration and local Veterans Assistance Offices for their invaluable assistance and support throughout the course of Sam’s extended illness. In lieu of flowers the family asks that any donations be made to the Lenoir Community Church. Evans Funeral Service of Lenoir is handling arrangements.