Sharon Evans Samford

Sharon Evans Samford was born on December 16, 1939, in Palo Pinto County, Texas, to Bruce and Evelyn Evans.

Sharon’s story of love and faith began early. In second grade at West Elementary in Midland, Texas, she met Gary Samford, who would become her soulmate. Their love blossomed during her sophomore year at Midland High School, and after graduation, Sharon attended Texas Tech University, where she joined Tri Delta sorority. She later began her professional career as an executive secretary at Permian Corporation before marrying Gary on December 19, 1959—a union that would last a remarkable 65 years.

As the heart of her family, Sharon created a warm and loving home across Texas, Missouri, Arizona, and California. She devoted herself to raising her two children, Craig (59) and Alison (54), to be compassionate and independent individuals.

Sharon’s faith was a guiding light throughout her life. While living in Alta Loma, California, she found purpose in women’s prison ministry through Bible Study Fellowship, serving incarcerated women in Norco, California. Upon returning to Texas, she became an active member of The Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church, serving on the Session and leading Bible studies.

Her spiritual journey deepened in Liberty Hill, Texas, where she played an instrumental role as a charter member of San Gabriel Presbyterian Church, serving on its steering committee and Session. At the age of 64, Sharon answered “the calling” and attended Asbury Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida, in 2003. She was later commissioned as a Lay Pastor by the Presbytery, fulfilling her passion to minister. Sharon’s most rewarding work was as the pastor of Faith-Fe Presbyterian Church in Lockhart, Texas, where she shared her compassion, wisdom and love with her congregation.

Sharon is survived by her devoted husband Gary; her children, Craig & Leesa Samford of Petaluma, California, and Alison & Randy Ramos of Conroe, Texas; and her beloved grandchildren, Josh Ramos of Austin, Texas, and Ryan and Kathryn Samford of Petaluma, California. She is also lovingly remembered by her extended family, including nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service celebrating Sharon’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on December 28 at San Gabriel Presbyterian Church, located at 5404 Williams Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78633. A reception will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions in Sharon’s honor to the Dementia Society of America, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, or the American Cancer Society.