Tributes have been paid following the death of a “deeply devout” and caring Armagh doctor.
Dr George Sam passed away peacefully on Thursday (July 10).
In previous years, Dr Sam worked in St Luke’s Hospital in Armagh and was a popular figure with both staff and patients alike but in later life he was perhaps best known by the congregation of St Patrick’s RC Cathedral.
Those who attend 10am mass at St Patrick’s would often see Dr Sam in their midst… many have said “he never missed daily mass, if he could help it”.
He was also a parishioner of St Malachy’s for many years, where all who attended grew to know and respect him.
Paying tribute to a man who made a lasting impression on those around him, one person said: “I didn’t know Dr Sam personally but knew him as a deeply devout and good man.
“I’d often see him in the Cathedral or St Malachy’s saying the Stations of the Cross and he never missed daily mass if he could help it.
“May God rest him and grant him eternal peace. Deepest condolences to his beloved family.”
And, Dr Sam was as compassionate as he was devout.
Speaking to his warmth and kindness, another said: “Dr Sam you were a one-off gentleman.
“I have missed you in St Malachy’s. After my husband died you would asked me how I was coping, he would say I understand and patted my hand.
“RIP you are now with your dear wife and daughter.”
Others have described him as “genuine”, “respectful” and a “wonderful gentleman”.
A death notice described Dr Sam as the dearly beloved husband of the late Janet RIP, loving father of Kevin, Benjamin, Jennifer and the late Kirstie, William and Christopher.
Fittingly, Dr Sam is to be laid to rest at St Patrick’s Cathedral following at 10am this Saturday with burial afterwards in St Patrick’s Cemetery.
