Joan Rule Sams

October 28, 1935 - February 28, 2020

Joan Rule Sams, age 84, of Erwin, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2020 at Governor's Bend Assisted Living. A native of Erwin, Joan is a daughter of the late James Clifford and Mary Adelaide (O'Brien) Rule. She worked as a Social Worker and was a lifelong member of Erwin Presbyterian Church. She was previously an active member of several clubs, including the Erwin Monday Club, the Wednesday Morning Club, the Parnassus Book Club and the Presbyterian Church Circle. She was also an Elder of the Presbyterian Church. In addition to her parents, Joan is preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Robert Franklin Sams. Joan Rule Sams leaves behind to cherish her memory: Sons: Bob Sams and wife, Karen, Scott Sams; Daughter: Pam Sims and husband, Mike; Brother: Jim Rule and wife, Susan; Grandchildren: Jeff Clark and wife, Lindsey, Justin Sims and wife, Katie, Chris Clark and fiancé, Alina Saez, Stephanie Sams; Great-grandchildren: Sadler Sims, Presley Sims, Anna Clark; Niece: Courtney Williams. The family would like to express sincere thanks to the nurses and staff of Governor's Bend Assisted Living for their loving kindness during this difficult time. The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Joan Rule Sams in a committal service to be held at 3:00 PM, Saturday, March 21, 2020 at Evergreen Cemetery with Dr. Stan Webster officiating. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Those who wish to attend will meet at Evergreen Cemetery by 2:50 PM on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Joan's name to Erwin Presbyterian Church, 105 N Elm Avenue, Erwin, TN 37650. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at www.valleyfuneralhome.net or on Facebook at FuneralHomeErwin. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Joan Rule Sams through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.