Mrs. Jearline Holmes Sams' Obituary
"A light from our household has dimmed. A voice we loved has been stilled. A place is vacant in our hearts that can never be filled."
Mrs. Jearline Holmes Sams was born on December 20, 1926, to Ruben and Effie Holmes. She moved with her family to Houston in 1933 and attended Phyllis Wheatley High School. At an early age she professed her faith and joined Carter’s Temple C.M.E where she was a dedicated member.
Jearline believed in family, home, and education. She was a devoted parent to her five children, Robert Delano, Lawrence Charles, Evelyn Joyce, Georgia Elaine, and Arnold Eugene.
In April 1959, Jearline was united in holy matrimony with the love of her life, Reverend Dirley Sams. As a couple, they made a positive impact on the lives of many and were dedicated to community service.
After she became a widow, Jearline stayed active and adventurous. She continued her love of traveling, visiting more than 40 states and 3 continents. At the age of 75, Jearline came out of retirement to help her granddaughter establish her medical practice serving the Acres Homes community. For her dedication to community service, she was officially recognized by the Mayor of Houston and Tarrant County Commissioners Court (Fort Worth).
One of her lifetime highlights was attending the White House Christmas Party in 2015, for her 89th birthday. She was overjoyed when she and four of her family members privately met and were photographed with Barack and Michelle Obama, who were immediately smitten by her.
Jearline died peacefully at home on June 28, 2022, surrounded by her children and grandchildren.
She is survived by her 5 children and their spouses, 12 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 2 great-greatgrandchildren, and lots of family and friends. Lovingly known as “Big Mama”, she showered love, advice, jokes, and stories on the many generations who followed.
What’s your fondest memory of Jearline?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jearline?
Share a story where Jearline's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jearline you’ll never forget.
How did Jearline make you smile?