Sam Earp

Rev. Sam Earp, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, was called home on May 21, 2025, at Hendrick Medical Center North, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on August 18, 1947, in Abilene, Texas, where his life journey began and where he would later devote decades to serving his community through the ministry of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Sam felt the call to the ministry at a young age, channeling his passion for faith and community into a devoted career. For the first eleven years, he was an evangelist, bringing hope and leading countless lives to Jesus. Following this period, he became the pastor at North Park Assembly of God Church in Abilene, for 38 ½ years. Sam's impact as a spiritual leader was profound, his warmth and humor illuminating the lives of those he served. He was an outstanding singer and musician, playing almost any instrument that had strings. Following his retirement from North Park Assembly of God, he filled the pulpit as a supply preacher for several area churches.

He was known for his dynamic personality—funny, witty, and the life of the party. Sam had a unique ability to connect with everyone he met; he truly never met a stranger. His joyous spirit and laughter resonated through every room, offering comfort and joy to all who knew him

In his leisure time, Sam enjoyed exercising and was famously recognized as a mall walker at the Mall of Abilene for many years. These simple joys were part of the fabric of his life, which he approached with enthusiasm and commitment.

One of his favorite scriptures, II Corinthians 5:6— “Absent from the body, present with the Lord”—reflects the deep faith that guided him throughout his life. In his final moments, Sam passed peacefully, his family surrounding him and singing his favorite gospel songs, creating a beautiful and moving farewell to a life well-lived.

Sam was preceded in death by his father, H. S. Earp, mother, Ruby Earp, and brothers Ed Earp and Carlton Earp. He was also preceded by his late wife, Shari Earp, who he was married to for over 50 years and whose memory remained dear to him.

Sam leaves behind his cherished wife, Clara Earp; his son, Rick Earp, and daughter-in-law, Cindy; his daughter, Sheresa Shepard, and son-in-law, John; his beloved grandchildren, Sharilyn Walters, and her husband Jeremy, Jennifer Ratto, and her husband Brody, Ryan Earp, and his wife Kate, Katy Earp, Zachary Shepard and his wife Jessica, and Ragan Woods and her husband Austin; and six great-grandchildren who adored him.

He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Bayne, and her husband Henry; and sister, Lana Kading.

As we reflect on Sam's life, we are reminded of the laughter he brought into our lives, the wisdom he shared, and the love he gave. His legacy of faith and joy will forever resonate in the hearts of those he touched. A Celebration of Life honoring Sam will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at North Park Assembly of God Church, 1918 Jameson Street in Abilene, beginning at 2:00 PM.

Please leave kind thoughts and condolences for the family on his obituary page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com