1SG Samuel Capuli Mandanas, US Army (Ret.)

1SG Samuel Capuli Mandanas, US Army (Ret.), 97, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away on May 17, 2026.

Born to Mariano Mandanas and Ciriaca Capuli, Sam faced challenges early in life that built in him a resilience and strength of character that would stay with him always. Serving his country became both his answer to those challenges and the foundation upon which he would build the rest of his life — a career, a family, and a place in his community. Drawn to that calling, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he would go on to serve with distinction for 28 years. He answered the call not once but twice — serving in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars — and was awarded the Bronze Star for his bravery on the battlefield. Those who knew Sam would tell you that his greatest strength was his integrity. He was a man of high moral character who carried himself with quiet dignity and always did right by the people around him.

The same work ethic that defined his military career carried him seamlessly into civilian life, where he went on to serve the State of South Carolina for 20 years as a dedicated civil servant. Sam approached everything he did with that same sense of purpose and commitment.

Beyond his service, Sam built a life rich in community, joy, and connection. He was an instrumental and valued member of the Filipino community in South Carolina, and his warmth, generosity, and steady presence touched countless lives. His faith was central to everything he did, and he was a faithful and active member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church.

Sam had many passions that brought him and those around him great joy. He was widely known as a remarkable cook — the kind whose food brought people together and whose influence in the kitchen will live on long after him. He loved tending his garden and fishing, and he had a true love of dance. He and his beloved wife were accomplished dancers who even moonlighted as instructors at Fred Astaire Dance Studios — a joy they were happy to share with anyone who wanted to learn. In his later years, Sam could often be found at the bingo table, surrounded by a large circle of devoted friends. He was the kind of man everyone loved and respected — not because he sought it, but simply because of who he was.

At the time of his passing, Sam was the oldest living member of the Mandanas family — a distinction that reflected the deep respect he had earned over a lifetime of service, sacrifice, and character.

He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Delia Mendoza Mandanas (July 10, 1936 – June 14, 2016).

Samuel is survived by his children, Denise Marie Mandanas and Kenneth M. Mandanas, and his grandchildren, Emma P. Mandanas, Benjamin G. Mandanas, and Samuel M. Mandanas.

He leaves behind a legacy of service, faith, and genuine human connection — a life lived with purpose and love, remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

The Mass of Christian Burial for 1SG Mandanas will be celebrated at 12 o'clock, Tuesday, May 26th, at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 100 Polo Road, Columbia. Final commendation and farewell prayers will be said at 2 o'clock at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia. The family will receive friends from 5 until 7 o'clock, Monday evening, at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road, with a Vigil service at 5 o'clock.