Sammy Jewell

SOUTH PORTLAND — Sammy J. Jewell, 74, died Saturday, June 24, 2017 at home surrounded by his family.

Born on May 8, 1943 in Arkansas, Sammy was the son of the late Sam and Sylvia (Roberts) Jewell. Following graduation, Sammy enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served during the Cuban Missile Crisis. During his service in the Navy, Sammy was stationed in Brunswick, where he met Sherry Intrieri. They were married on May 1, 1970. Following their marriage, Sammy enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he honorably served for 16 years, retiring in 1985. Throughout his military career, Sammy and Sherry were fortunate to have been able to travel the world.

In his retirement, Sammy enjoyed spending time at Range Pond Campground. Family and friends could find Sammy sitting outside in the sun quietly reading, surrounded by pink flamingos and other unsightly lawn ornaments. When the summer would end and fall began, Sammy could no longer sit outside. He was content though because it meant that football season was starting. His wife, Sherry, would kiss him goodbye knowing that for the next few months his attention and focus would be on whatever football game was on, especially if it was a Razorback game. When football season was over, Sherry would kiss Sammy and welcome him back.

Above his love for camp and football, Sammy was a devoted husband, proud father and adoring grandfather. He cherished his grandchildren and spoiled each of them in their own unique way. When he would go shopping, he knew exactly what kind of treats to get his grandchildren. Whether it was peach ring candies, little sodas, Danish pastries, marshmallow pinwheel cookies or salt and vinegar chips, Sammy was always stocked up and ready for visits from his grandkids. 

Sammy had a dry sense of humor and a laid back, reflective personality. He was a very mellow, kind and thoughtful man who will be deeply missed.

He is predeceased by his sisters, Bobbie Presswood and Mary Sutton.

Sammy is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Sherry Jewell of South Portland; daughters, Jodi Jewell of Casco and Keri Weekley of South Portland; six grandchildren; his sisters, Doris Beck, Nancy DelRio and Vickie Vernon.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, June 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Conroy-Tully Walker South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. A Life Celebration service with military honors will follow at 6 p.m.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Maine Veterans Homes, 460 Civic Center Drive, Augusta, ME 04330.