It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Samuel Lee Sikes, affectionately known to family and friends as Lee, who passed away on June 11, 2026, at the age of 79.

Lee was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and cherished great-grandfather whose life was defined by service, integrity, and an unwavering love for his family. His kindness, wisdom, and steady presence left a lasting impression on everyone who him, and the memories he created will be treasured for generations to come.

A proud patriot, Lee honorably served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy. He carried the values of duty, honor, and leadership throughout his military career and into every aspect of his life, earning the respect and admiration of those around him.

Lee also held a profound love for Texas A&M University, where he was a proud member of the class of 1968 with a degree in engineering, he also played in the legendary Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band. His Aggie spirit remained with him throughout his life, and he cherished the traditions, friendships, and values he gained during his time there. He wore his Aggie pride with honor and was always eager to share stories and memories from those unforgettable years. After being a proud Aggie, he went to Houston Baptist University where he received his MBA.

Outside of his devotion to family, military service, and his beloved Aggie traditions, Lee had a lifelong passion for Corvettes and could often be found admiring, discussing, or working on the iconic American sports car he loved so much. He was also an avid reader, always eager to expand his knowledge and immerse himself in a good book. His curiosity, intelligence, and enthusiasm for learning inspired everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Mary Jane Sikes; his son, Samuel Cory Sikes; his granddaughters, Alexis and Natasha; his grandson, Sam Sikes; and his great-grandson, Samuel Elijah. As well as his three nieces, Tonja Scheer, Betty Scheer Ellsworth and Shonnie Scheer Roggi. His family was the center of his world, and he took immense pride in watching it grow. After spending the first part of his life with his small family in Houston, he later moved to Greenvine to spend the rest of his life on family property.

Preceded in death by his parents,  Christine Edgecombe and Samuel Tillotson Sikes Jr., his brother Stuart R. Sikes and a sister Sally Sue Scheer.

Although Lee is no longer with us, the values he instilled, the love he shared, and the example he set will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him. His legacy is one of devotion, resilience, service, loyalty, and unconditional love.

Lee will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, fellow Aggies, and all whose lives he touched. His love, laughter, stories, steadfast character, and enduring Aggie spirit remain with those who knew him, ensuring that his memory lives on for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to Greenvine Emmanuel Lutheran Church, or in memory of Lee at Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association Attn: Memorial Gifts, 1507 South College Avenue, Bryan, Texas 77801.

Serving as pallbearers will be Chris Cook, Blair Nader, Ron Howard, Alan Backof, Gene Banks. Honorary pallbearers will be Hank Holt,  Jacquy Pearson, Bob Flocke and the Class of '68 Aggie Band. 

The funeral service for Samuel Lee Sikes will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 10:00 am at Emmanuel Lutheran Church with Joseph Winston officiating. Burial will be at 2:00 PM in St. John Lutheran Church Cemetery in Cat Spring, following a reception in the church fellowship hall. Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Sunday, June 14 at Memorial Oaks Chapel.

"A life well-lived leaves behind a legacy of love that time can never erase."