My flesh and my heart might fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.                                                                                         Psalm 73:26

Sammy Lee Thorne, 68 departed this life peacefully on Monday, September 11, 2023 surrounded by his sons at Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Sammy, known to most as 'Sam' or 'Sammy Lee' was born on June 26, 1955 in Norfolk, Virginia to the late Lewis Thorne and Carrie Del McCray Thorne.  Sam was raised by Odessia Shields Staton whom he loved and adored.

Sam was educated in the Norfolk City Public Schools, graduating from Booker T. Washington High School. Sam's family and closest friends heard him frequently talk about his high school days when he was the Drum Major for the Booker T. Washington Marching Band.   He was proud and honored to lead the band in this vital position.    Sam continued his education attending Norfolk State University.  After leaving the Norfolk area in the late 1980's, Sam moved and lived in Essex and Caroline Counties.    Sam was a member of Salem Baptist Church in King George, Virginia.

Sam was employed by the Norfolk International Airport while living in Norfolk.  After relocating, he worked for General Products Company, Inc., Sherwin-Williams, formerly Duron Inc., and Goodwill Industries all located in Fredericksburg, Virginia.  Through the years, Sam received various appreciation awards and plaques for his performance and dedication.   Sam stayed in touch with his former employers and co-workers and they stayed in communication with him; often sending Christmas cards encouraging him to stop by and visit.

Sam was a classic car enthusiast, never passing up an opportunity to buy, trade, sell or talk about his next car quest.  Sam loved to sing and will be remembered for his incredible vocal talent.  He sung in several singing groups over the years, both gospel and secular.  'All Together' and 'Split Decision' were two of the groups.  You could also find him casually singing on the streets with his close friend, Dean Baylor.    Sam was an outgoing, fun-loving person who never met a stranger.  Sam was an avid football fan, most passionate about his beloved Dallas Cowboys and often seen wearing team apparel.

Sam leaves to cherish his memory, his sons, Martinez McNair of San Diego, California, Aron Thorne of Tappahannock, Virginia, Cedric Thorne of Hustle, Virginia and Bryon Shade of Richmond, Virginia;  eight siblings which includes a devoted sister, Pearl with whom he had a special lifelong bond; nine grandchildren, Tine'y, Martinez Jr., Aron Jr., Ta'Miyah, Amari, Braelyn, Kalen, Yara and Uriah; two great-grandchildren, Alex and Elena; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A memorial service  will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday,  September 23, 2023 at C.W. Edwards Funeral Home, Inc; 16476 Richmond Turnpike, Bowling Green, Virginia 22427.