Carlton Edward Sams

Mr. Carlton Edward Sams, age 86, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, peacefully transitioned from this life on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at Canoe Brook Assisted Living in Catoosa, Oklahoma, surrounded by care and comfort.

Carlton was born on December 22, 1939, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to the late Clarkson Sams and Vansella Thelma (Johnson) Sams. From an early age, he was instilled with the values of education, perseverance, and service to others—principles that would guide him throughout his life.

A man of great intellect and dedication, Carlton pursued higher education and graduated in 1962 from North Carolina A&T State University with a degree in Education. He later earned his Master’s Degree in Social Work from Adelphi University. His passion for helping others led him to a remarkable career as the Director of the Boys Home Society in Baltimore, Maryland, where he faithfully served for 32 years. Through his leadership, guidance, and compassion, he impacted the lives of countless young men, offering them hope, direction, and opportunity.

Carlton was known as a man of wisdom, quiet strength, and integrity. He carried himself with dignity and purpose, always willing to lend a listening ear or offer sound advice. His life was a testament to service, and he leaves behind a legacy rooted in compassion, education, and uplifting others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarkson Sams and Vansella Thelma Johnson, as well as his beloved granddaughter, Cyanne Sams.

Carlton leaves to cherish his memory his loving children, Cristofer Scott Sams, Danielle Lauren Sams Eni, and Elyse Grace Sams; his siblings, Hazel Annette Johnson and Michael Johnson; and a host of grandchildren, including Crystal Sams Amen, Chase Sams, Ca’Ron Sams, Nenna Eni, Arielle Eni, Nathanael Eni, Eke Ethan Eni, and Jayce Eni. He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews, including Vansella DuHart, Michael Johnson, and Teah Johnson, along with a host of extended family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Though Carlton has taken his rest, his legacy will continue to live on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared. His journey here on earth has ended, but his spirit lives on.

A Homegoing Celebration will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, May 18, 2026, at Howell Funeral Home, 10220 Guilford Road, Jessup, Maryland 20794. Interment will follow at Columbia Memorial Park in Clarksville, Maryland.

Local arrangements were entrusted to Brown’s Funeral & Cremation Service, 231 E. Commercial Street, Broken Arrow, OK 74012. Final services are under the direction of Howell Funeral Home, Jessup, Maryland.