Sammy Ozier Slay

Mr. Sammy Ozier Slay, 78, retired Agent Operator and employee with Illinois Central Railroad passed away Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at his residence surrounded by family and friends in Eupora, MS. Funeral Services were held 2:00PM Thursday, December 29, 2022 at White Hill Free Will Baptist Church with burial in Shady Grove Methodist Cemetery in Webster County, MS. Bro. Jack McQuary, Bro. Trey Miller and Bro. David Keen officiated. Pallbearers were his five grandsons; J.T. Slay, Blake Slay, Justin Lewis, Payton Lewis, Joseph Lewis and his son-in-law; Mike Lewis. Sammy was born on March 28, 1944 to Norris Newton Slay and Geneva Cook Slay in Kosciusko, MS. He was a member of White Hill Free Will Baptist Church and a member of the Army Reserve. Sammy loved softball and was an avid fan of the Ole Miss Rebel and St. Louis Cardinals. Mr. Slay obtained an Associate's Degree from Holmes Community College and went to work for the railroad. After retiring from the Illinois Central Railroad, Sammy worked as a Forest Ranger for the Mississippi Forestry Commission and mowed lawns and cemeteries for many years. He was known for his wit and humor with all of his friends and family and truly had a servant's heart. Sammy loved to help his friends and neighbors and never expected anything in return. He was preceded in death by his parents; Norris and Geneva Cook Slay, and his sister; Marie Blaine. Mr. Slay is survived by his wife of 57 years; Donna Freshour Slay, Eupora, MS, his daughter; Missy (Mike) Lewis, Eupora, MS, a son; Barry (Dabnee) Slay, Pontotoc, MS, five grandsons; Justin (Jessica) Lewis, J.T. (Lakyn) Slay, Payton Lewis, Blake Slay and Joseph Lewis, three sister-in-laws; Pat Ray, Sue Mashburn and Kathy Martinson, and a host of nieces and nephews. Oliver Funeral Home of Eupora was in charge of all arrangements.