CELEBRATION OF LIFE & LEGACY

Samuel W. Bourn, Jr. was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on April 29, 1934. He was the firstborn child of the marriage union between Samuel Bourn and Sadie Dalton. During his childhood, he and his siblings—Helen, Dorothy, and Melvin—grew up on Griswold Avenue in the Mt. Pleasant community.

Sam enjoyed sports, especially playing baseball and other neighborhood games with his siblings and friends. He attended Woolridge Elementary School, Kennard Junior High, and graduated from East Tech High School. A bright student, Sam, excelled particularly in mathematics.

He later became employed with the United States Postal Service. During that time, he married and became the proud father of two sons, Michael and Dwayne.

Sam was well-liked and deeply loved. A natural communicator, he connected easily with people from all walks of life and every background. A businessman at heart, he enjoyed the finer things in life—cars, clothing, and good food. In 1978, Sam set an all-time Ohio record for the largest payout at Thistledown Racetrack, winning a Trifecta in the amount of $57,432.30. That was truly a happy day!

After years of retirement, Sam became a resident of Abbington Arms, where he found joy in helping others. He was an active volunteer, bridging gaps within his in-house community as a Community Resident Representative. A positive and solution-driven voice among his peers, Sam helped new residents become acclimated to the building and to available resources. He took pride in conducting resident meetings, resolving concerns, and fostering unity. People genuinely enjoyed his company and valued his wisdom.

Later in life, Sam became a resident of Jennings Center in Garfield Heights. His tenacity to live independently never wavered, it was that hope and determination that kept him going. At Jennings, God showed His love through the care of staff, nurses, and aides, and through a special friendship with long-time resident Elaine Vesprani—someone who accepted him without question or hesitation and truly understood where he was in life.

This friendship brought Sam a deep sense of comfort and reassurance, allowing him to feel genuinely seen and valued. Through shared conversations, TV watching, card playing, laughter, and mutual respect, he found in Elaine a companion who encouraged his growth and supported his journey. Their bond enriched his later years with warmth and connection and stood as a testament to the power of unconditional acceptance—further enhancing Sam’s legacy of kindness, community, and love.

At the age of 91 years old, Sam peacefully went home to be with the Lord. Having learned the power of forgiveness, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior years earlier. Though life’s journey led him through many seasons, Sam rededicated his life to Christ in his later years—a decision that brought him renewed peace and love.

Those who knew Sam will remember his quiet strength, thoughtful nature, and independent spirit. He faced life with calm determination and a generous heart, always ready to lend a hand or share a kind word. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the friendships he built, and the example that he set of resilience, dignity, and grace.

With his quiet, calm demeanor and unwavering independence, Sam truly lived life his way.

Sam leaves to cherish his memory: sons Michael and Dwayne, along with their families; sister Dorothy Ranch; nieces Tana Powell (Ted) and Janel Roland (the late John); nephews Faron Roland and Paul Stubbs (the late Elaine); great-nieces Alaina Carr (Ray), Genesis Mitchell (Quinton), Halli Andrews (George), and Taylor Roland; great-nephew Gregory Roland; and great-great-nieces Haidyn and Harlee Andrews, and Reign White. In addition, he is remembered fondly by a host of devoted friends and caretakers.