Sammy Thomas Padgett passed away on Thursday, August 13,2026, after a tough battle fought with strength and determination.

Sam was born in  Plainview, Texas, to Winfred and Mazelle Padgett. At just 17 years old, he proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably rom 1971 to 1977 and attaining the rank of Corporal (Cpl). Being a Marine remained one of the great prides of his life.

Sam spent much of his life doing what he loved- driving a truck and chasing the open roa. His career took him across the country and included years of hauling cattle throughout the Texas Panhandle and Oklahoma. Trucking wasn't simply a career for Sam; it was part of who he was.

In July 1994, Sam met the love of his life, Kayla Mitchell. They married on October 28,1994, and together built a life full of adventure. They eventually purchased their own trucks and started K&S Transport. One of their greatest prides was their award-winning show truck, "Splash," which represented the hard work, miles, memories, and adventures they shared together.

Through all those miles, Sam's greatest devotion was to Kayla.When he wasn't driving or caring for his wife, he loved fishing, tinkering, fixing things,and finding something to keep himeslef busy. He was also a proud member of the Roan Creek Marine Corps League of Amarillo, NRA, American Legion, and VFW.

Sam is survived by his wife, Kayla; son Justine Lee Padgett and his fiancée, Crystal, and Justin's children, Hayden and Josie; daughter Brandy and her husband, Bill Murtha, and her children, Macayla, Auston, and Lilly; and great-grandchildren Alakai and Kamiah.

He is also survived by his stepdaughters and their families: Kristina and Russell, and their children, Abby and Zach; Kathy and Travis Lay, Kathy's daughter Berkleigh and her husband, Quentin, and great-grandchild Dennis; and Kristal Perdue and her children, Christian, Hallie, and Izzie.

Sam leaves behind his sister Susan and her husband, Max, and their family; his brother Langley; his "adopted" daughters Desirae and Shelby and their families; and his adopted granddaughter Toni and her daughter, Aubree and Hadlee. Sam didn't know a stranger, and his caring heart had a way of turning friends and neighbors into family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Winfred and Mazelle Padgett, and his brother, Victor Lee.

Sam was a marine , a tuck driver, a fisherman, a tinker,  a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, friend and a man who knew how to make life interesting.

Most importantly, he was deeply loved.

Years ago, Sam promised Kayla they would never live a dull life.

He kept his promise.