16, 2026, at his home in Monticello, AR, with his wife, Debbie, and his dear
friend, Ben, by his side. Sam was born July 23, 1950, in Pontotoc, MS.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Dexter Givhan, Sr., and
Katie Mae (Mallory) Givhan, and his siblings, Cartaral Levirt, Floye Willie,
Alvis Russell, Palmer, Annie Virginia ''Ruchell'', Mae Delores, and Baby
Joe.
Sam leaves behind his loving wife, Debbie (Peacock) Givhan, children
Stayc Givhan (Mandie), McKenzie Mason (Seth), Melanie Pugh (Alex),
Justin ''Jutty'' Pugh (Jordan), grandchildren Taylor Mason and Kohen
Mason, siblings William Franklin, Cecil Ray, Cora Ann, Hazel, and John
Henry Cornolia. He was a treasured uncle and cousin to many.
We mustn't forget the cats, Grayc, Kitten, Precious, and forever friend
Pasquale.
Sam was born and raised in Pontotoc, Mississippi. He graduated from the
University of Mississippi with a B.A., M.A., and Ph.D in Psychology and
Community Counseling. Sam worked at the Mississippi Learning Resource
System, founded the Dexter Clinic, served as the Director of School
Psychological Services for Oktibbeha County School District, taught as an
Assistant Professor of School Psychology at Mississippi State University,
worked as a School Psychologist for the Natchez-Adams School District,
and retired from the Noxubee County School District as a School
Psychologist.
Sam proudly served on many boards and councils that served his
communities, most notably the Mississippi and United States Boards of The
Arc, which are known for advancing the civil rights of people with
disabilities.
Sam was a man of the world on loan to us from the divine. He was an
advocate, a cheerleader, a champion, a poet, a dancer, a writer, a
shade-tree mechanic, a blue ribbon jam maker, a caroler, a beekeeper, a
scout leader, a choir member, a lifelong learner, a world traveler, a
handyman, a chef, an eager taste-tester, a teacher, a photographer, a keen
observer, a knower, and a believer...just to name of few of his many loves
and hobbies. His love of people and hearing their stories created
connections all across the world. His time with us, and with all, will be felt
for years and generations to come. His loss is heavy on the living, but we
know he wants us all to rejoice. Rejoice in the day that the Lord has made.
Amen.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the American Diabetes
Association.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, May 30,
2026, at Second Baptist Church (189 N. College St.) in Pontotoc, MS.
Condolences(7)
Roger Gray
Gulfport, MS Tuesday, May 5, 2026 Debbie: it was all joy meeting you and Sam for the first time. Prayers goes out to all.Cuz Roger Gray ❤️
Kenneth Simmons
Powder Springs, GA Thursday, April 23, 2026 Although we didn't spend a whole lot of time together, you always had words of love and wisdom to share with me. Rest in Heaven Uncle Sam.🙏🏿❤️Tracy Daniel
wilmar, AR Thursday, April 23, 2026 I was saddened to hear about the passing of Mr. Sam. I got to know him through the years of working at South Arkansas Rehab. He truly was a remarkable man. Ms. Debbie, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. We love you.Jeff Longing
Monticello, AR Wednesday, April 22, 2026 I’ve known Debbie and Sam for many years and had the pleasure of visiting with Sam at numerous university events. He was always genuinely happy, with a contagious personality that made those around him feel at ease. Sam had a true passion for working on cars, and it was often a topic I enjoyed discussing with him.He will be remembered fondly, and my thoughts and prayers are with Debbie during this difficult time.
Rodney LaGrone
Tupelo, MS Tuesday, April 21, 2026 Uncle Sam...Thank you for your support through good times and bad..Rest in Heaven...Love&Respect Rodney LaGrone
Rod LaGrone
Tupelo, MS Tuesday, April 21, 2026 Uncle Sam...Rest in Heaven Unc..We didn't agree all the time but the Love and Respect was always there..Rest In Peace Sam... Rodney LaGrone
Nina Stahley
Hamburg, AR Tuesday, April 21, 2026 Oh! Debbie,I am heartbroken for you. I know how special you two were to each other. I am so sorry for your loss. Love and Prayers,
Nina