Sammy Warner

Sammy Dawson Warner, later known as Sam, was born November 16, 1934 and passed away March 8, 2018 at the age of 83.  Sam was the son of Grace Warner Torrence and William Dawson Warner, both now deceased.  David Warner was his only sibling who died years ago.  Sam had several cousins, Linda Wright, Sylvia Jean Beaty, Sharon Leonard, Kenneth Brown and Geraldine Springer.  Sam was born and grew up in Richfield, NC until his dear professor at Pfeiffer University encouraged him to move to New York to further his exciting creative gifts of flower arranging and music.

Sam was a resident of New York City (middle of Manhattan) for many years being a well-respected florist at Irene Hayes, Wadley and Smythe and Pierre Hotel where he met celebrities from all artistic fields who were his frequent customers.  Sam loved to tell stories about the encounters he had with Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson and his very favorite being Audrey Hepburn along with many others all of whom always raved about his floral creations.  This knack for creating exquisite floral masterpieces remained with Sam for his entire life. Just give Sam some twigs, assorted odds-and-ends and some flowers and presto! A unique work of art was born!

Sam studied classical piano with Margaret S. Kinander in Manhattan and performed in numerous concert halls throughout the city. One highlight of his life was playing a piano recital in Carnegie Hall with wonderful success.  Sam was a much-loved fixture of not only Manhattan’s florist circles but also of the city’s musical circles as well, exhibiting his ever-present sense of humor and a highly compassionate heart. This compassionate heart also extended to animals and he always had a cat wherever he lived.

Several years ago, Sammy was called to move from New York back to Charlotte to take care of his mother ravaged by alzheimers.  Unfortunately, after she passed, he was never able to move back to New York to live the life he adored.

Sam served as a member of Myers Park Baptist Church by creating inspiring flower arrangements each Sunday along with accompanying hymn singing on the piano for his beloved Sunday School class.  Sam also made breath taking flower arrangements for the altar as well.

Sam was a friend beyond compare and mere words cannot convey the impact that he had on all those who loved him. He was truly a “class act”.

Graveside service to be at 3:00pm Sat, March 10, 2018 at Richfield Cemetery.  Memorial Service to be held at 3:00pm Sunday, March 11, 2018 at Myers Park Baptist Church.

Memorials are appreciated and requested to be sent to Hospice and Palliative Care Charlotte Region, 7845 Little Ave, Charlotte, NC 28226 or Myers Park Baptist Church, 2001 Selwyn Ave. Charlotte, NC 28207

Hartsell Funeral Home Albemarle is serving the Warner family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com