Jewell Via Sams

Celebrating the Life of Jewell Via Sams

Jewell Via Sams, age 88, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her own home on November 7, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of a family who adored her. While her passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, her life leaves behind a legacy of faith, devotion, kindness, and unconditional love that will live on for generations.

Born on October 19, 1938, in Leslie, West Virginia, to Frank and June McClung, Jewell was the oldest daughter in a family of six children. Although West Virginia was where her story began, she moved to South Carolina in 1956, where she would spend the remainder of her life building a home, raising a family, nurturing friendships, and creating countless memories.

In 1956, Jewell married the love of her life, Billie Joe Sams, affectionately known as “Guy-Guy.” Together, they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on love, family, and faith. Their partnership was a beautiful example of commitment and devotion, and the memories they created together will forever be treasured by their family. They were blessed with two children, Teri Smith (Dave) and George Wayne.

To know Jewell was to know what it meant to be loved by Nana. Family was always at the very heart of her life, and nothing brought her greater joy than time spent together, whether traveling, gathering for special occasions, or simply being at Nana and Guy-Guy’s. She took tremendous pride in her family and made everyone feel special, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was, without question, the very best Nana, always ready to spoil them with love and attention.

Nana and Guy-Guy shared a particular joy in introducing their grandchildren to everyone they encountered. It didn’t matter whether the person was a lifelong friend or a complete stranger; they wanted the world to know about their grandchildren. Their pride in their family was unmistakable, and their grandchildren were truly the center of their world.

Jewell’s faith was the foundation of her life. For more than 50 years, she was a devoted member of Trinity Presbyterian Church, where she faithfully attended Sunday School and worship services and participated in nearly every aspect of church life. She even became well known for her special talent of “counting the money” each Sunday. Her love for the Lord was evident not simply through her church attendance and service, but through the way she lived each day—with kindness, humility, generosity, and a genuine love for others. Her faith guided her life and provided a lasting example for her family.

The family would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to VIA Hospice and ExpertUs Care for the compassion, kindness, and support provided to Jewell and her family. Special appreciation is extended to Lexington Medical Cancer Center and Dr. Steve Madden, as well as MUSC Hollings Cancer Center and Dr. Brian Hess, for their exceptional medical care.

A very special thank you goes to Haleigh Taylor, NP of Lexington Medical Cancer Center, whose kindness and compassion meant more than words can express. Haleigh was truly a godsend to the family, sharing in the moments of joy, including the celebration of “ringing the cancer bell”, and providing comfort and support through the more difficult days. Her impact will never be forgotten.

Jewell is survived by her daughter, Teri Smith (Dave); her grandchildren, Molly Floyd (Aaron) and Jordan Smith (Jessica); and her four beloved great-grandchildren, Ayden Floyd, Larkin Smith, Graham Smith, and Tegan Floyd, who brought her immeasurable happiness and represented another generation of love and family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Billie Joe “Guy-Guy” Sams, and her son, George Wayne.

A memorial service celebrating Jewell’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Jewell’s memory to her beloved church of more than 50 years: Trinity Presbyterian Church 1000 Greenlawn Drive, Columbia, SC 29209 

A life well lived. A love that will never fade. And a Nana who will never be forgotten.