Samuel Russell Quay, Jr.

November 30, 1943-May 9, 2024

Samuel Russell Quay Jr., 80, Altoona, peacefully entered the kingdom of Heaven following a brief illness. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Samuel R. Quay Sr. and Luella (Merritt). He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 49 years, Sandra Love Quay.

He is survived by two sisters: Sharon L. McCartney, wife of Joseph; and Sally A. Forsht, wife of Alfred Cromer, as well as four children: Samuel R. Quay III and wife Cathy, Scott C. Quay, Sara L. Quay and fiancé Danny Bowser, and Sheila B. Quay; and seven grandchildren: Samantha, Shane, Anneka, Soren, Evelyn, Alexandra, and Stella.

He was a 1961 graduate of Altoona Area High School. He served in the United States Air Force from 1961 to 1965. He graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1970 and attended graduate courses at Syracuse and Temple University. Throughout his career he was employed by Philco Ford, Prudential, and IDS American Express. After retirement, he served as a dedicated volunteer at the James E. Van Zandt Medical Center.

Sam was devoted to caring for his family and had many friends. His charm, kind spirit, and sense of humor brought joy to all who knew him.

Friends will be received from 3-4 p.m., Monday, May 13, 2024 at the E. Merrill Smith Funeral Home, 2309 Broad Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601. A funeral service will immediately follow at 4 p.m. by Pastor Douglas McGaffin. Interment will be held at Grandview Cemetery, Altoona.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Sam’s memory with a gift to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.