Samuel John Hite, Jr., age 92 passed away on September 2, 2021.

He was born in Claylick, Ohio on December 26, 1928 to Samuel and Martha (Mauller) Hite. He graduated from Kirkersville High School, class of 1947 where he was named First team All-County Basketball team.  After High School Sam served in the U.S. Army and was deployed to Korea as a Supply Sergeant.  Sam was awarded the Bronze Star and a commendation medal for his service there and the Korean War Service Medal for the 50 ^th anniversary of the Korean War by the Korean Government

Sam was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Norma Jean (Thomas); his sister Carol Morehouse and brother Richard Hite.  Sam is survived by his brother, James of Peoria, Arizona, sister-in-law June Hite of Greenville, Ohio, sons Marvin (Nancy), David (Patty) and Kelvin (Robin); seven grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild and by Barbara Dietz, his companion of four years.

Sam retired from Chessie Systems Railways where he served as a yard master at the Fifth Avenue railyard.  He enjoyed bowling, fishing, boating, and traveling.  Sam enjoyed watching sports of all types.  Sam was a member of Christ United Methodist Church where he served on many committees including Trustees and the Building Committee for the sanctuary and the office wing of the church.

Friends may call at EVANS FUNERAL HOME, 4171 Livingston Avenue, Columbus on Friday, September 24 ^th from 4 p.m. to 7 pm. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, September 25 ^th at Christ United Methodist Church, 1480 Zettler Road, Columbus, Ohio.  The Service will follow at Noon at the church with Pastor Curnell Graham and Pastor Calvin Alston Jr. officiating.

Interment will be held later at the Kirkersville Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Christ United Methodist Church Memorial Fund or Honor Flight of Columbus, P.O. Box 12036, Columbus, Ohio 43212-0036 ( www.honorflightcmh.org ).