Samuel “Sam” John Cordrey, 72, of Fayetteville, passed away Friday, February 8, 2019 in Fayetteville. He was born August 9, 1946 in Toledo, Ohio to Robert and Marie Waldo Cordrey.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Sam was a retired Navy veteran having served several tours in Vietnam. He retired from the Navy in San Diego, CA in 1985 as Senior Chief Petty Officer (E-8). Sam moved to Arkansas in 1985 after his retirement. He was owner/operator of Sam’s Aircraft in Springdale. Sam enjoyed hunting and fishing and was an avid Razorback fan. He loved his family dearly.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Sandy Robards Cordrey; three children, Jeffrey Williams of Fayetteville, Tiffany Stills (Shane) of Elkins and Nichole Stills (Shawn) of Elkins; 6 grandchildren, Lauren, Eric, Blake, Clint, Cole and Derek; 1 great-granddaughter, Parker; 3 sisters; 1 brother; and a host of friends and extended family.
Funeral services will be 1:00 PM Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at Beard’s Chapel with Rev. Jim Huffman and Jim Jernigan officiating. Interment will follow at the Fayetteville National Cemetery with full military honors under the direction of Beard’s Chapel.
The family will receive friends from 12:00 PM until service-time on Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at the funeral home.
Donations may be made to the Regional National Cemetery Improvement Corp, P.O. Box 4221, Fayetteville, AR 72702.
Our Deepest Sympathy
Sandy and family I am so sorry to hear about Sam passing away I know it is hard to except. Thinking about y’all.
Being thankful for having one last chance to visit with Sam in the hospital I can say that Sam was quick to hold out his hand when I offered to pray with him last Thursday night.
We all know only too well that death is something we all face in this life we live, but thanks to Jesus Christ who willingly died on Calvary and arose from the grave to pay the penalty for the sins of all who trust Him alone as Savior, there is more than just hope after we pass from this life. We trade a body that is weak and failing for body that has no more weakness or suffering and for an eternity with Jesus Christ Himself in heaven.
Best wishes to all of Sams family and friends. May The Lord give you abundant Grace!
Because Jesus lives, we can face tomorrow.
Jay
I am so sorry to have lost one of the best neighbors I have ever had if I needed anything Sam was always there to reach out a helping hand and to share his wonderful fish.
Thinking of your family in the loss of your love one My prayers are with you during this time.
Prayers for Sams family.
Prayers to the family. Sam was a friend who l will always remember. As SAM’s FAA Inspector I wish Sam perfect smooth blue sky’s ahead and easy aircraft maintenance for ever more.
Im sorry for your loss…I managed Lake Sequoyah for almost 8 years Sam would come out and visit often I all ways enjoyed visiting with him.
Thank you Sam for all the Mentoring you invested in me as I grew over the years in my career as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician in NW Arkansas. You were always quick to respond to my request and questions. I will miss having you as a go to guy for your wealth of aviation knowledge. I will be praying for your family.