How do you pay adequate tribute to a man who embodied kindness, generosity, genuine friendship, compassion, honor and integrity? Sam’s legacy will be perpetuated through the ongoing spirit of his selfless acts and the desire he instilled in those many people he touched to "be better". During his lifetime, in his own gentle way, he inspired all who knew him. He acted in a selfless way that so many aspire to, but rarely actually accomplish! To put it simply: Sam was an engaging friend and warm family man - not because he had to, but because of his innate decency and honor. His principles guided him to act always with a deep understanding and commitment to others.

From his many years of dedicated public service through his career at the Veterans Administration to his legendary Christmas cards and New Year’s Day celebrations on Broad Street, Sam showed us how a decent and honorable man acts when helping others. He relished, with true satisfaction, others’ successes. Sadly, most of us, in our lifetimes, will not encounter another Sammy. Unfortunately, his breed is becoming far too rare. In this narcissistic, self-indulgent world of “me, my and mine,” Sam demonstrated how genuine kindness and friendship trumps material possessions hands down! All one needs to do is ask others about Sam and it is readily apparent that it was his humble, yet impactful thoughtfulness towards others that made him beloved not only by his sisters and large array of nieces and nephews, but by the multitude of neighbors and friends who have commented that he was a true friend. You see, Sam was not a “fly by night” or “convenient” friend—but rather—he was there for you in thick and thin, no matter what… He could always be counted on to do the right thing—no matter what the circumstances. We were proud to know Sam because he showed us that good folks can succeed and that there is nothing more important than the qualities he espoused day-to-day.

It is important to reflect on what Sam meant to all of us and celebrate his life by emulating those traits that made him so revered by his family and friends: kindness to others, humility, understanding, trustworthiness and perseverance. These qualities that made him so special will enable his spirit to live forever in our hearts…

- Thomas A. Cellucci