Mr. Samuel Lee Price

PRICE, Mr. Samuel - Age 83, passed away Wednesday, August 5, 2026, in Waterville, OH. Family Hour 9:00 AM Saturday, August 15, 2026, from the Chapel of Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home, 906 W. Flint Park Blvd., with funeral service commencing at 11:00 AM, Pastor Daniel E. Moore, officiating. Interment Evergreen Cemetery, G-3415 E. Hill Rd., Grand Blanc, MI. Friends and pallbearers will assemble at the funeral home, 9:00 AM Saturday. Mr. Price will lie in state in the Chapel of Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home. Public Viewing will only be held during the family hour. Samuel L. Price, affectionately known as "Sam," passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026, at the age of 83. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy of athletic achievement, entrepreneurial success, unwavering character, and a lifetime devoted to family, mentorship and service to others. Sam was born in Margaret, Alabama, son of Henry and Juliette Foster Price, Sam was raised in Toledo, Ohio. He attended Scott High School and distinguished himself as one of the city's outstanding athletes. He lettered in football, track, and wrestling. His exceptional skills earned him the opportunity to attend the University of Illinois - on full scholarship - where he continued his football career while developing the discipline, leadership, and work ethic that would define the rest of his life. He married Carolyn Fields and fathered a son – Kevin – during his university years. His college athletic career culminating as a member of the victorious University of Illinois 1964 Rose Bowl team. In 1966, Sam was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the American Football League Draft. As one of the original members of the franchise, he proudly wore jersey number 30 and helped lay the foundation for what would become one of the National Football League's most respected organizations. Among the memorable moments of his professional career was catching Hall of Fame quarterback Bob Griese's first professional touchdown pass, a 27-yard reception against the Denver Broncos on September 17, 1967. During his three seasons with the Miami Dolphins (1966–1968), Sam rushed for 313 yards, caught 10 passes, and scored two touchdowns. More important than his statistics was the respect he earned from teammates through his humility, determination, professionalism and unwavering commitment to the team. Following his professional football career, Sam successfully transitioned to the business world. In 1969, he entered the Burger King Corporation's management training program at the company's Miami headquarters, preparing for what would become an accomplished career as a restaurant owner and entrepreneur. Sam became a successful Burger King franchise owner, opening his first restaurant in Saginaw, Michigan, followed by the development of a second Burger King restaurant in Flint, Michigan. Building upon that success, he later founded and operated Big Sam's Restaurant in Flint, where he became well known throughout the community not only as a successful businessman but also as a mentor, employer, and respected civic leader. During the early 1990s, Sam began a new chapter in the automotive industry by joining the Al Serra Automotive Group in Grand Blanc, Michigan. He assumed leadership responsibilities overseeing the company's pre-owned vehicle operations while working closely with senior management. Sam earned a national sales award of the “One Price” program volume record. His professionalism and integrity earned the confidence of both colleagues and customers throughout his years with the organization. Throughout his life, Sam made his home in several communities, including San Diego, California, Wellington, Florida, and later Waterville, Ohio, where he spent his final days receiving compassionate assisted living care. Sam was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolyn Price, who passed away on January 28, 2022. Their marriage was one of love, partnership, and mutual devotion, and her memory remained close to his heart throughout his remaining years. Samuel L. Price is lovingly survived by: his son, Kevin L. Price; daughter-in-law, Cassandra Price; cherished granddaughter, Sophie (LJ) Price; siblings, Dorothy (Robert Sr.) Gray, Edward (Iverlyn) Price, Herman (Brenda) Price, and Estelle (Ronald) Esmond; his son, Oliver King and Oliver’s wife, Ariana and his grandsons, Oliver King and Austin King; brother-in-law, Victor (Alma) Russell; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, lifelong friends, former teammates, business associates, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing him. Sam was a respected teammate, businessman, and friend. To those who knew him best, he was also a teacher and mentor whose quiet example influenced generations both within and beyond his own family. His greatest legacy was not found solely in football or business, but in the lives he helped shape through his character, wisdom, compassion, and generosity. May he rest in eternal peace. They would like to express special thanks to the staff of the Golden Corral in Royal Palm Beach, FL.

Mr. Samuel Lee Price

October 1, 1942 - August 5, 2026