Sam Winfree

Sammy "Sam" Kenneth Winfree passed away peacefully on December 22, 2023, in Cookeville, Tennessee. Born on September 12, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan,Sam was a beloved son to the late Alton J. and Clara Loftis Winfree, and a cherished brother to his late sister, JoAnn Winfree Myers. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Cynthia Loftis Winfree; devoted son, Alan J. Winfree, and daughter-in-law Jennifer; his loving daughter, Sarah K. Mellema, and son-in-law Robert; his goddaughter, Meg Galloway and her daughters Seattle and Nyomi; as well as his adored granddogs, Harley, Annie, and Parker. He was a respected uncle and great-uncle, leaving behind several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, who will miss his guidance and warmth.

Sam's educational achievements were noteworthy, having earned two Ph.Ds, one in food science and another in animal science. His passion for knowledge and dedication to his field were evident to all who knew him. Sam proudly served his country in the United States Army, where his bravery and service were recognized with a Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Following his military service, he embarked on a distinguished career as a Professor of Pre-Vet and Animal Husbandry at Tennessee Tech University, a role he held from 1980 until his retirement in 2008. He also served for 8 years on the Putnam County School Board.

Beyond the classroom, Sam was an avid motorcyclist, traveling the open roads with the same vigor he approached all aspects of life. Music was a refuge and joy for him, playing as a talented musician whenever the opportunity arose. Sam's love for the land manifested in his work as a farmer, where he found solace and purpose in tending to his beef cattle and sheep. His faith played a central role in his life, and he was a faithful member of the Church of Christ, living his beliefs through his actions every day.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Sam would describe him as intelligent, faith-filled, and incredibly generous. He possessed a sharp mind that was matched only by the size of his heart. Sam's legacy is not only in the knowledge he imparted to his students but also in the love and kindness he shared with his family and community.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 28, 2023 at 11:00 am in the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home. Bro. Doug Dillard will officiate. Interment will follow in Cookeville City Cemetery.

His family will receive friends Wednesday from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm and again Thursday from 9:00 am until service time at the funeral home.

Lee Amonett, Bruce Arnold, Eddy Locke, Harry McGugin, Al Myers, Michael Myers, Matthew Phillips, Wes Roberson, and Sam Tays will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Ackerman, Charlie Lewis Allen, Rellon Allen, Wayne Compton, Randy Gouge, Freddie Holloway, Roger Phillips, Donnie Spurlock, Jr. Stover and Greg Tayes, along with all former students of Dr. Winfree.

Memorial contributions are suggested to be made to the Wounded Warrior Project https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate .

Hooper-Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. You may share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.