WILMINGTON — Samuel “Sam” Douglas Loftis, a devoted husband, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, went home to be with his Lord and Savior peacefully on June 3, 2025, at the Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion in Wilmington, North Carolina. Born on April 17, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, he lived a full life dedicated to his family, faith, and community, passing at the age of 83.
Sam graduated from Tennessee Tech University in 1964 with an engineering degree and was known for his strong work ethic throughout his successful career. He enjoyed working at Gulf Oil in Houston, TX, serving as the President of Neptune Measurement Company in Greenwood, SC, and co-owner of Triple “T” Trucking Brokerage in Temple, TX. Although Sam did not serve in the U.S. Military, he was a very patriotic man and a faithful soldier for the Kingdom of God. Sam joyfully attended and served in churches throughout his life, most recently at First Baptist Church in Wilmington, NC, where he was a long-time member of the Wells Sunday School Class and Men’s Prayer Group. He cherished the fellowship and spiritual fulfillment he found at the church, and also at the Good Shepherd Center in Wilmington, NC where he volunteered for years.
Sam was a pillar of strength, a shining example of Christian living, and a source of wisdom for his family and friends. Without fail he always put others first, lending a helping hand with guidance and support to anyone in need. He will be deeply missed and affectionately remembered until we see him again in Glory as promised by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Sam is loved and survived by his wife of 38 years, Charlene Danesi Loftis of Leland, NC; his daughter, Julie Thomas (Greg) of Rocky Point, NC; his sister, Patricia Edwards of Texas; his two grandchildren, Austin Samuel Grabovac (Bryanna) of Hampstead, NC, and Bradley Scott Thomas (Becca) of Leland, NC; and his great-grandchildren, Palmer Scott Grabovac and Mason Samuel Grabovac who is due to arrive into this world in July. He also leaves behind a special sister-in-law, Valerie Gasperini of Leland, NC, and many dear nieces, nephews, and extended family members in Texas, Charlotte, NC, also in Pittsburgh, PA, along with cherished neighbors Bob and Jeanne Keil of Leland, NC, and best friends Beth and Jerry Jones of Waynesville, NC.
Sam is preceded in death by his parents, Jere W. Loftis and Claudia Jones Loftis, and his sister, Geraldine Edwards.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Lower Cape Fear Hospice.
Online condolences may be offered here.
Samuel Douglas Loftis will be dearly missed but his legacy of faith and love will continue to inspire us all.
