Mr. Samuel "Sam" Booth Currin III, beloved husband, stepfather, and Papa, whose life was defined by his faith, the law, and public service, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the age of 79 at UNC Health Southeastern in Lumberton, NC. Sam spent most of his life in Oxford, NC, before relocating to Lumberton in 2021.

Sam was born on July 25, 1946 in Oxford, NC to the late Sam B. Currin, Jr. and Hope H, Currin. Growing up in Granville County, Sam was involved in scouting, football, and his academic studies. He graduated from J.F. Webb High School in 1964 and went on to earn a B.A. at Wake Forest University in 1968. Sam became a Double Deacon in 1971 when he graduated from Wake Forest Law School with a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

Sam's true calling was as a trial lawyer. For over 50 years, Sam sought justice both for victims, as a prosecutor, and for his clients, as a criminal defense attorney. He retired from the State of North Carolina with over 30 years of public service, first as an assistant district attorney and then as the elected District Attorney of Prosecutorial District 9. Following his distinguished tenure as District Attorney, Sam transitioned to private practice at Cross & Currin in Oxford, where he continued to advocate for justice until his retirement. During his legal career, Sam received many awards and citations, culminating in his receiving the 50-Year Service Award from the NC State Bar and The Order of the Long Leaf Pine.

Beyond the courtroom, Sam continued his public service by serving as an Oxford City Commissioner for 16 years, to include a term as Mayor Pro Temp. He lent his talents to The Granville County Little Theater. Sam was also involved in many civic organizations, such as Jaycees, Kiwanis, and the local chapter of the Red Cross. During his life, he enjoyed golf, jogging, reading, traveling, and a glass of single malt Scotch whiskey. Most recently he was a very active member of the Faith Sharing Discussion Group (book club).

His commitment to his Christian faith was just as strong. Sam was a former member of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Oxford, having served many years on the vestry to include a term as Senior Warden. After moving to Lumberton, Sam became a member of Trinity Episcopal Church, where he was currently serving on the vestry.

Sam is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Bettye D. Currin; his stepchildren, Robert "Bert" C. Kemp III (Michele) and Travis F. Kemp (Anne Christopher); his six adored grandchildren: Robert, Alexis, Avery, Alaina, Grayson, and Currin; his sister, Eliza C. Williams; his niece, Dawn W. Stanley (Will); and his nephew, Jimmy Williams (Kelsey).

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Trinity Episcopal Church, 1202 N. Chestnut Street in Lumberton, NC, with a reception to follow in the parish hall. Sam's ashes will be interred at a later date at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Oxford, NC.

If you wish, memorials may be made to: Trinity Episcopal Church, 1202 N. Chestnut Street, Lumberton, NC 28358, or to: St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 140 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565.