Samuel Franklin Loyd

Samuel Franklin Loyd, lovingly known as Sam, Sammy, and Uncle Sam, passed away on July 14, 2025 in Tyler, Texas at the age of 91. Born on February 14, 1934 in Muscotah, Kansas, Sam lived a long and full life defined by hard work, unwavering love for his family, a sharp wit, and a spirit that never met a stranger.

With only an 8th grade education, Sam went on to build a life rooted in determination and grit. Throughout his working years, he took pride in his roles as a carpenter, farm hand, and in roadwork for Brown County, Kansas. He also served his country honorably in the U.S. Army during the late 1950s and early 1960s — something he carried with pride throughout his life.

Sam was a natural storyteller who loved to make people laugh with his jokes, life advice (often unsolicited but always memorable), and tales that grew taller with time. He had a way of making everyone feel like family, and his presence lit up any room he entered. Whether he was cooking, playing cards, watching NASCAR, or tinkering on a project around the house, Sam did everything with passion — but none more so than fishing, which remained his greatest joy and lifelong hobby.

He shared 54 wonderful years with his beloved wife, Evelyn, who passed away in August 2024. Together they built a strong, loving home and raised two children he adored: Douglas Loyd of Dallas, TX and Kathleen Holbert (married to Johnny Holbert) of Eustace, TX. He was a proud grandfather to Haylie Reynolds (married to Aaron), and Jefferey Holbert, and a great-grandfather to Miranda, Wyatt, Ryder, and Mayslie. Sam also leaves behind his sister Sharon Dexter of Hiawatha, KS, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many others who saw him as a father figure.

He is preceded in death by his wife Evelyn, his parents Elmer and Goldie Loyd, and five sisters: Mary, Bessie, Isabel, Lois, and Darlene.

Sam lived independently nearly all his life, with a will to live that carried him through to the very end. He was tough, loving, opinionated, and deeply devoted to those he cared for. His legacy lives on in the stories he told, the advice he gave, the family he nurtured, and the life he lived with purpose and humor.

He will be missed more than words can say — a man whose personality was larger than life and whose love will never be forgotten.