Obituary of LaVerne Sams

Sams LaVerne (Eli) Age 90, of Bridgeville, on November 30, 2020. LaVerne was born in Primrose, PA in 1930. She lost both parents by age 12, was raised by immigrant Grandparents, and at 15 went to live and work at Woodville State Hospital all while earning her High School Diploma at Schenley Night School. She was the first member of her family—both sides—to finish high school. Later, with the support of the Nuns, her savings and financial help from her brother Ralph, she received her RN from OVGH in 1953, ultimately attaining a BS degree in Education from California University of PA. LaVerne loved being a nurse. She knew she wanted to be one at 9 yrs. old when she saw a picture of one in a magazine. She will also be remembered for the wonderful Syrian bread she baked—sometimes over 100 loaves at Christmas time—and giving them all away. LaVerne valued hard work as much as family and will be missed by the many lives she touched. She is survived by her five children, Rebecca Wisbon (James) of Bridgeville, Jennifer Sams of Claysville, Gretchen Hurley (Michael) of Jacksonville, FL, Karen Sams of Mt Lebanon and Todd Sams (Consuelo) of Avella. Three grandchildren, Ian Wisbon, Jennifer Yates, and Michael Hurley. And, one great-grandchild, Trenton Yates. All services will be private by the Warchol Funeral Home, Inc., 3060 Washington Pike, Bridgeville (412-221-3333). Memorials to Primrose School and Museum, Inc. (please make checks payable to WCCF), c/o Washington County Community Foundation, 1253 Rt. 519, PO Box 308, Eighty Four, PA 15330.