Samuel Witherspoon Jr.

Samuel Witherspoon Jr. was born on October 18, 1945, to the late Robinette Marie Blue and Samuel Witherspoon, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Samuel was affectionately known as Dad, Daddy, Pop-Pop, Uncle Sam, Sammy, Sam Jr., Spoon and a host of other names. He gained his wings on June 8, 2020.

In 1964 Samuel received his diploma from Thomas Edison High School for Boys. He was impressed with the recruiters at Career Day and he joined the Air Force; following in the footsteps of his favorite uncles. Honorably discharged from the US Air Force in 1968, Master Sergeant Witherspoon’s four years took him to Reno, Nevada; Amarillo, Texas and Anchorage, Alaska.

Sam obtained employment with Westinghouse located in Lester, PA until its closure. He felt something was lacking in his bright future, so in 1976 he joined the Air Force Reserves at Joint Reserve Base Willow Grove in Horsham, Pennsylvania and retired October 2005. While working at Sears, Samuel enrolled at Community College of Philadelphia, in 1977 and completed his courses three years later, garnering an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration and Accounting. He continued his education at LaSalle College. He lastly worked for the Social Security Administration, where he retired after 30+ years of service.

Samuel married his childhood friend, Patricia Ann Washington, on December 17, 1966. Pat, affectionately called “Baye,” was the love of his life, and they spent over 53 years together as a happily married couple. From this union three children were born: Alicia, Aaron and Angela. Samuel was extremely proud of his children and their accomplishments, especially the grandchildren they gave him to love and spoil.

Samuel was a member of Bright Hope Baptist Church, in Philadelphia. In December 2010, Samuel and Patricia renewed their vows at Bright Hope Baptist Church, and he was able to give his soul mate the big, fairytale wedding she always wanted.

Samuel’s military background intersected with his personal life by guiding his family with a stern strong voice. He prided himself on arriving EVERYWHERE extremely early, with a piece of scrap paper to take detailed notes. Over the years, Sam mellowed into becoming a soft hearted Pop-Pop, who enjoyed having family vacations, sharing his meals, and making everyone around him laugh with his sense of humor.

Samuel had several hobbies that he enjoyed including grilling, playing cards, bowling, assembling model Air Force airplanes, and dancing. He made sure that he captured every moment with his camera and video. Sam took a liking to line dancing, showing off his unique dance style.

Samuel left this world to be reunited with his wife Patricia and his parents who preceded him in death. He leaves to cherish his memory: three very caring and devoted children – Alicia Sager, Aaron Witherspoon and Angela Witherspoon; a daughter-in-law, Lanzy Witherspoon; eight grandchildren - Demetryus (Aspen), Dominic, Deidre (Linda), Jordan, Jasmine, J’Nae, Ciana and Jevon; seven great grandchildren - Gabriel, Natalie, Jackson, Kylar, Denver, Fenix and Isliary; five siblings Robinette Hill, Jeanette (Harold) Washington, Rodney (Linda) Witherspoon, Charlton (Alice) Witherspoon and Arthur (Ora) Witherspoon; sister-in-law Denise (Andrew) Thompson and brother-in-law Charles Washington;

two godchildren – Clarissa Henderson and Charles Henderson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Sorrowfully Submitted,

The Family