Sam Maida, 91, of Beaumont, Texas died Saturday, May 5, 2007 at his home.  Born in Beaumont in 1916, along with six brothers and sisters, he was raised in Beaumont by his parents, Joseph and Sophie Maida.  He was married to his beloved wife Lucy Stanton Maida for sixty five years, and during that time they shared great joy and happiness as dedicated partners.  Together they had two daughters.  He served in the United States Navy during World War II, and was stationed in California and the Pacific.  When he came home from the service, he owned and operated the Crescent Market grocery store at Magnolia and Gladys until he was almost eighty years old. 

Sam loved to fish and hunt. Some of his favorite memories included these adventures.  Pap-paw enjoyed being an active part in the lives of his grandchildren.  He loved people and enjoyed visiting with them.  Sam never met a stranger, and had a great life!  He enjoyed life to the fullest. His smile and cute personality will be missed.

The family thanks all the loving care givers especially Pamela Trahan and her cheerful co-workers.  Heartfelt thanks to Tony Edwards, who was his constant companion for the past four years.  He added so much joy to Sam’s life by his loyal and kind service. 

Sam Maida was preceded in death by his daughter, Patricia “Patty” Maida Neild; brothers, Joseph Maida and Frank Maida; and sisters, Nannie Tritico and Mary Saragusa.

He is survived by his wife, Lucy Maida; daughter, Carole Maida Bailey and son-in-law F. Kenneth Bailey; brother, Pete Maida, Sr.; sister, Doris Riley; grandchildren, Camp Bailey and his wife Sheri, Chad Cantella and his wife Allison, Jenna Junell and her husband Harris Junell, Dr. Christine Putnam and her husband Dr. Russell Putnam; and nine great grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 8, 2007 at St. Anne Catholic Church with burial to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park under the direction of Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin, Beaumont.  Serving as pallbearers are Pete Maida, Jr., Jason Riley, Jr., Grady Stanton, Bill Neild, Sam A. Maida, Cyril Maida, Frank Maida, Joe Maida, Charles Russo and Stanton Morse.  A Christian Vigil will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 7, 2007 at the mortuary.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anne Catholic School, 375 North 11th Street, Beaumont, Texas 77702 or Salvation Army, 2350 I-10 East, Beaumont, Texas 77703.