George Samuel Mattox Jr. ("Sammy"), 70, of Ridgeway, South Carolina, passed away on January 11, 2026. He was born on February 24, 1955. After graduating high school, Sammy married and went on to serve in the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Great Falls, Montana, where, little did he know at the time, he would form many lifelong friendships that he cherished for the rest of his life.

He spent many meaningful years living in Montana, North Dakota and South Carolina, places that held a special spot in his heart. During his life in these places, he built lasting friendships and collected countless memories that he cherished deeply. The people and experiences from those years remained an important part of his life and story.

Sammy found joy in the simple things—spending time outdoors, cultivating his beloved daylilies, woodworking, hunting arrowheads, and practicing flint knapping. He had a deep appreciation for nature and working with his hands.

Sammy was known for his stubborn independence and strength, but those who truly knew him also knew his kind heart, gentle side, and good sense of humor. He was steady, loyal, and uniquely himself, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.

He is survived by his daughter, Mindy McManus, and son-in-law, Byrd McManus; his granddaughter, Aria McManus; his sister, Patty Mattox; his best friend and caregiver, Nancy Rowe Davis; longtime local friends Brian Davis, Michelle Pineda, and Carl Rowe Jr.; his former wife, Patsy Palmer; his stepchildren, Lindsay Matthews and Emily Catoe; and his nieces and nephews, Dustin Seager, Allison Branham, Tracey Jackson, and Scott Gilliland. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alice Mattox and George "Rat" Mattox; his former wife, Mary Roach; and his children, Melissa and Godwin.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local animal shelter or that a small daylily garden be planted this spring.