Joan Elizabeth Sams, 97, of Salina, Kansas, passed away Sunday, September 22, 2024. She was born on October 31,1926 in Gypsum, Kansas, to Roy and Fanny (Cunningham) Manning.

Joan graduated from Gypsum High School in 1944. She then went to Kansas Wesleyan University and there met the love of her life, Larry Sams. They were married February 9,1947 in Gypsum, Kansas. They celebrated 72 years of marriage in 2019 prior to Larry’s passing March 15, 2019.

Joan was an elementary school secretary for USD 305 for 24 years. When she retired, she volunteered at the hospital and her church. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women organization, and Peacemakers Sunday School class. She was also involved in the bells and then a member of the Chimers group at Eaglecrest where she resided.

She is survived by her children, Douglas Sams and Janice Kline; grandchildren, Michael Kline (Carrie), Justin Kline (Sara), Jason Sams (Brittany), Parker Sams, and Preston Sams (Kara); and great-grandchildren, Caleb (fiancé Caitlyn) and Connor Kline, Katelyn Gray (Ethan), Kirsten, Jacob, and Joshua Kline, and Grayson Sams.

Preceded in death by her husband, Larry; parents; brother; 3 sisters; many nieces and nephews; and son-in-law, Bill Kline.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Roselawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Salina.