Sammye Finney

Sammye Sloan Finney (86) left this world for a better one, while surrounded by family and loved ones in her home; on Wednesday, February 15, 2023. In her graciousness, she always had a kind smile and a warm welcome for everyone that she met. The only child of Monroe and Mabel Sloan, Sammye was born in old Hickory, TN. The family moved to Martinsville, VA. in the early 1940’s. It was there she met her childhood sweetheart, and future husband of 60 years, Herman (Ray) Finney. Sammye attended Martinsville High School, where she was Homecoming Queen. After graduation she attended Lynchburg College, she returned to Martinsville to work for Yeamon Securities.

In 1958 Sammye and Ray were married. They immediately moved to Richmond, Virginia where Ray received his medical degree from The Medical College of Virginia. Sammye and Ray moved to Augusta Georgia in 1963. In the early 1970’s she became part owner of the Fashion Court in Daniel Village. In addition to serving all of her customer’s needs, Sammye was a loving mother to her three daughters, “calm down, cool it, and hush”, respectfully, Lisa, Jane, and Holley. She consistently supported her children’s interests and encouraged them in their activities. This passion for her children carried over to her five grandchildren. She cherished their visits, phone calls, and meals together.

Sammye and Ray enjoyed spending time on their sailboat, “Night Owl”. The countless hours of varnishing teak and working on the boat seemed like more of a vacation than work. As time progressed, Sammye spent many hours on her front porch or at the windows of her home observing all of the birds and wildlife in her yard. The family would like to thank all of the birds and critters that visited regularly.

Sammy was active in the Richmond County Medical Auxiliary, The Suburban Garden Club, Augusta Country Club, and Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church. She also had a strong appreciation for and supported the work of Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

She is survived by her three daughters, their spouses and her grandchildren:
Lisa and Dan Patterson (Sam) of Winston-Salem, NC, Jane and Andy Barret (Sloan, Jack) of Miami, FL, Holley and Grey Murray (Herrington, Grey, Jr.) of Augusta, GA. Sammye was predeceased by her parents Monroe and Mabel Sloan, and her husband Dr. H. Ray Finney.

During her extended illness Sammye was under the care of several very special caregivers who provided more than physical assistance but were also loving companions throughout. Tywanda, Lyla, Earlene, Tonya, Lawanna and several others were indispensable during this difficult time. The family is appreciative for the efforts of Promedica Hospice and their healthcare workers, Cindi, Rick, and Chaplain Mason.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-0050 or St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 650 Reynolds St. Augusta, Ga 30901

A memorial service will be held Monday, February 20, 2023, at 1:00 P.M. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church with Rev. Eric Biddy officiating.

The family will receive friends on Sunday from 4:00 until 6:00 P.M. at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com