Samuel Augustus Grow, 87, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2025, in Columbia, Tennessee. He was born on January 19, 1938, in Pittston, Pennsylvania, to the late James Augustus Grow and Altona Way Grow.

A retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and fighter pilot, Sam proudly served his country with honor and discipline. After his military career, he found his greatest joys in quieter moments—especially sitting on the back porch, watching the wildlife roam across his beloved, beautiful land in Perry County.

Twenty-four years ago, Sam followed Rita, the love of his life, to Tennessee, where they built a warm and welcoming home together. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, and grandfather—always steady and proud of his family.

Sam gave back to his community in countless ways. He volunteered at the Linden schools and was a dedicated Holy Trinity Catholic Church member. In recent days, the Hohenwald community has stepped up to show just how much he meant to them, something his family will never forget.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Rita; his children, Tony (Cassy) Grow, James (Suzie) Grow, Cathy (Mike) Fasano, Susan Peele, and Steph Grow; his brothers, Robert (Charlene) Grow and Steven (Nancy) Grow; and nine grandchildren and eleven great-grandchild.

Sam’s legacy lives on in the land he loved, the family he cherished, and the many lives he quietly touched.

Visitation with the Grow family will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM with military honors being presented at 11:30 AM in the chapel of McDonald Funeral Home – Lewis County.

A Funeral Mass will be held at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Hohenwald on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 1:00 PM with refreshments to follow.

McDonald Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Grow family.