Samuel M. Stauffer, 82

May 20, 1942 - April 22, 2025

Samuel M. Stauffer, 82, of Ronks, PA, passed away peacefully at Lancaster General Hospital on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. Sam shared 60 years of marriage with his wife Naomi J. (Prentice) Stauffer, who was by his side the very moment his soul ascended to Heaven.

Born May 20, 1942, in Lancaster, Sam was the youngest son of the late Henry and Marian (Feister) Stauffer. Sam graduated from Conestoga Valley High School, Class of 1960, where his classmates surrounded him with love and prayers, resulting in his decision to accept Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. The impact from this singular event has been generational.

During July of 1960, Sam enlisted in the US Navy, starting with an overseas tour in Naples, Italy. For most of his career, Sam was a recruiter in charge of the Lancaster Naval Reserve Center. There, he aided many people in joining the Navy, including his son and nephew. During this time, Sam earned degrees in counseling from Millersville State College. After 23 years of service, Sam ended his Navy Career as Command Master Chief.

Sam was also involved in the earliest days of Lancaster County tourism, co-managing and operating the Soudersburg Motel with his mother and brothers.

Sam was an active member of Calvary Church, serving as a deacon, volunteering on the benevolence committee and church directory, and always opening Sunday School with witty humor and song. Sam cherished his wife and family, consistently led by example, and was always of good character. He and Naomi hosted many foreign exchange students through the years. Recently, they have opened their home to travelers, offering them a warm and welcoming stay. Sam found joy in sharing his testimony with those around him.

In addition to his loving wife Naomi, Sam’s family includes their daughter Cheryl Benner, wife of Lamar, their son Tim Stauffer, husband of BethAnn (Potts), along with seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Sam was preceded in death by his parents and his four brothers: Henry, Kenneth, Sherman, and David Stauffer.

Sam’s life will be celebrated on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 11:00 at Calvary Church, 1051 Landis Valley Road, Lancaster, PA 17601 with the Rev. Steve Kilgore officiating. A viewing will take place at the church from 10:00 to 11:00. Interment with military honors will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a future date.

Please omit flowers, and kindly consider a contribution in Sam’s memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306 or Tunnel to Towers Foundation