Sam Pittman

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Samuel Leroy “Sam” Pittman, age 75, of Webb City, Missouri, passed away suddenly on March 16, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

Sam was born on June 14, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Howard Pittman and Juanita (Riggs) Pittman. The family later settled in Webb City, where Sam attended school, participating in football, ROTC, and other activities before graduating in 1968. After high school, he attended college in California until the tragic passing of his father. Sam then returned home and began a career as an over-the-road truck driver to support his mother and younger sister. He loved the open road and the freedom of traveling the country.

Sam later worked for Foremost Dairy then Hiland Dairy as a route driver in Joplin, Missouri. Through hard work, dedication, and a deep sense of responsibility, he eventually became Branch Manager in Nevada, Missouri, where he served for nine years. He later returned to Joplin as Sales Manager, a role he held until his retirement in 2016. Sam devoted 41 years of loyal service to the company.

In 1972, Sam married Vivian Moore, and in 1980 they welcomed their son, Brian, who became the center of Sam’s world. Sam loved his son with his whole heart he was a devoted father, mentor, teacher, and best friend. His quiet strength, patience, guidance, and unwavering support shaped Brian’s life in every way.

Sam was a gentle soul who never hesitated to help when someone needed him. He was remarkably capable, knowledgeable, mechanically gifted, and endlessly resourceful, and he passed those qualities on to his son. His kindness, humility, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Linda and Darlene.

A celebration of Sam’s life will be held at Hedge-Lewis & Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri, on Wednesday, March 25 from 5 p.m. to 7 pm. The family will receive guests who wish to share memories, stories, and reflections on Sam’s extraordinary life.