From the views of Panorama Hill, Samuel Hays Cassell passed away on April 25th, surrounded by his loving family.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Daniel Cassell, mother, Ella Repass Cassell, first wife, Jewel “Toody” Cassell, brother, Joseph Newton Cassell, and son, Joseph Michael Cassell.

Sam is survived by his wife, Mary “Sis” Cassell of Wytheville, VA. Daughter, Cindy Cassell Smith (Dave) of Hampstead, NC. Stepdaughters Nowoka Joy Hilton Early (Stephen V. Early, MD) of Crozet, VA. Jill Michelle Green of Salem VA. Stepson Richard Reed Hilton (Christy) of Rural Retreat, VA. & Daughter-in-law, Debbie Cassell Worth (Tom) of Wytheville, VA.

Also surviving Sam are his grandsons, Grey Smith (Paula), Andrew Smith (Valentina), Samuel Cassell (Aubrey) Daniel Cassell (Amber) Step-grandsons, Tyler Hilton (Miranda) Brent Hilton (Autumn) Step-Granddaughters Haley Green, PHD, Hannah Green and 12 great grandchildren.

A man of deep faith, he embodied the spirit of a Southern Gentleman- gracious, humble, and devoted to his family and community. Sam lived by the belief that “life is precious, and every moment shared is a gift”.

A proud veteran, Sam served His country during World War II in the US Army, where he was stationed in Italy, carrying with him the same honor and quiet strength that defined his life.

Sam was employed by the Virginia Department of Forestry, where he dedicated 27 years, before retiring. He is fondly remembered as “Smokey the Bear” by many local school students. Sam’s vast knowledge of forestry provided him with the opportunity to serve on many state and local committees.

Outside of his career with the Forestry Department, Sam was a dedicated farmer, operating a Christmas tree farm, and raising beef cattle- work that reflected his deep love of the outdoors.

Sam’s faith was the Cornerstone of his life. He was a lifelong member of St. Lukes Church, an active choir member, and a respected Lay Speaker for the Highland Conference for more than 25 years.

Sam served as director for Grayson-Carroll-Wythe Insurance, Big Walker Soil & Water, and on the St. John Cemetery Committee, as well as other State & local committees.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to:

The Roger & Kevin Forrester Family, The Anthony Cline Family, Allen Felty, Anita Hammer, Penny Cregger, Wendell & Susy Hoback, Jenny Tarter, PA. Dorothy Farriss & Family Physicians & staff, H2 Health Therapists & staff, Wythe County Community Hospital 3rd & 4th Floor doctors & nurses, Wythe Hospice of SW, Va, and Pastor Johnathan Hamman.

In honor of Sam’s life & legacy, memorial contributions may be made to:

St Lukes Lutheran Church Cemetery Fund- Attn: Mary “Sis” Cassell, 205 St. Lukes Rd., Wytheville, Va. 24382

St. John’s Cemetery Fund- Attn: Jane Festa, 559 Rose Hill Rd., Wytheville, Va. 24382

Or the charity of your choice.

Funeral service will be held 4 P.M. Saturday, May 2, 2026, at St. Lukes Lutheran Church conducted by Pastor Jonatham Hamman and Pastor Joseph Shumate with interment to follow in the St. Lukes Lutheran Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 2 P.M. Saturday until service time. American Legion Post 9 will conduct Military graveside rites. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.grubbfuneralhome.com

Grubb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.