Samuel “Sam” Carico, 86, of Morganton, NC, passed away Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at his residence while surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Cleveland County, NC on April 20, 1939, he was the son of the late William Carico and Mozelle Bridges Carico.
Sam worked for SGL Carbon for 28 years. He enjoyed outdoors and loved hunting and fishing. Even mowing his yard and riding his tractor brought him joy. He was an exceptional dad who gave all he had for his family. The selfish side of life is always wanting them here, but God has his plan. Until we meet again.
Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Crystal Sutton (Tim), Marcia Potts (Randy), and Elaine Bivens (Wayne); son-in-law, Gary Hall; grandchildren, Josh Hunt (Shelly), Cameron Cook, Andrew Cook (Jenna), Alex Hall, Jamey Bivens, Jody Potts, and Cody Sutton; and great-grandchildren; Kaiden York, Cameron Cook, Samuel Cook, Sydney Hunt, Ethan Hunt, Landyn Lail, Kimberly Newman, Kailee Sutton, and Kolton Sutton.
In addition to his parents, Sam was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Ellen Epley Carico; and a daughter, Rita Hall.
A celebration of Sam’s life will be from 4pm to 7pm Saturday, April 4, 2026 at his home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Amorem Hospice (amoremsupport.org/donate).
The family would like to express their appreciation to Amorem Hospice for the gracious care shown to Sam.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Crystal, My heart goes out to you and your family during your time of grief. Sam had his own way about him and that was something I loved and respected about him. He was always good to me and never said a harsh word towards me which is something I will carry with me in my memories of him... I Pray God's Love, Grace and Mercy over all your heart's. I furthermore, Pray that God Showers Blessings of Peace and Comfort over you and your family tonight. Until another time from my heart to all of yours...
I thought the world of Sam. He would come in at ingles in Morganton he would through my line I was the cashier he would give me hug I always told him I loved him He reminds me of my step father he would ask me every time he seen me about Danny my husband he always said Danny was a good man that he was very lucky he had someone like me
I love and miss you Daddy. I'm thankful you are not suffering anymore. Thank you for everything you did for me in my life. You are forever in my heart.
I love and miss you Daddy. I'm thankful you are not suffering anymore. Thank you for all you ever done for me.
I worked at GLC with Sam and spent time up on the mountain at 105 bear hunting with him.. he would always offer me a sandwich when I came by him while getting into the stands to wait on a bear to come by.. Sam was one fine feller.
