Samuel Lawrence Reddick

Samuel Lawrence Reddick There are lives that, regardless of their length, feel undeniably full. They are defined not only by what was accomplished, but by how deeply they were lived and by the people they touched. Samuel Lawrence Reddick lived such a life. Samuel Lawrence Reddick was born on October 22, 1992, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick III and Robin Shyne. From an early age, kindness, joy, and inquisitiveness were his hallmarks. He was reared in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, where a foundation of faith, community, and service was established early in his life. During his high school years, Samuel moved to Trussville, Alabama, where he attended Hewitt-Trussville High School and earned his diploma. As he grew older, his life was marked by introspection, a quiet confidence, and a disciplined mind, paired with a warmth to which people were naturally drawn. His big, genuine smile and uproarious laugh brought joy to those around him. Following high school, Samuel enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving his country. His service reflected his commitment to duty and honor, and helped shape a life grounded in principle, integrity, and service. After completing his military service, Samuel earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He went on to build a career in software development and engineering, ultimately working as a Software Engineer at Microsoft until the time of his passing. He was committed to a life of learning, exploration, and discovery. Samuel made his home in Atlanta, Georgia, where he built a life rooted in meaningful connection. He was passionate about engaging deeply with the world around him, while also finding fulfillment in the simple joys of life—from conversations over a meal to video games late into the night. He was not afraid to know, and to be known. Beyond his professional and military accomplishments, Samuel may be most remembered for the way he showed up. In the most literal sense, even if only briefly, he would be there. And when he arrived, each person received the gift of his unique, individualized, and intentional presence. With his friends, Samuel engaged deeply. Willing to wrestle with complex questions, or to sit comfortably in the absence of answers, he brought thoughtfulness and compassion to every conversation, pairing his remarkable brilliance with profound humility. With his extended family, Samuel carried an unwavering commitment to representing them well. In them, he knew he was loved and anchored, and that time with them would always feel like home. With his nieces and nephews, “Uncle Sam” was nothing short of a superhero. Whether through playful conversation or simply being climbed upon, he gave himself to each of them fully, offering his attention, his energy, and his love without reservation. With his siblings, Samuel shared deep, meaningful conversations, yet still allowed himself to be the “little brother,” yielding without protest to their hugs, kisses, and care. No matter what, there was always room for laughter. And in it all, he quietly reassured them that he was, and would be, alright. And with his parents, Samuel carried an abiding respect and boundless love, honoring them not only in word, but in the way he lived his life. He learned from their lessons, carried their guidance, and reflected their investment in him through the man he became. The foundation they laid became the firm ground upon which he built a life that was thoughtful, present, and entirely his own. Samuel Reddick transitioned unexpectedly from this life to eternity on April 2, 2026. Samuel is survived by his parents, Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick III and Robin Shyne; his stepmother, Wynde Jones Reddick; his siblings, Jon (Rebecca) Reddick, Janice (Erik) Gaines, Iris (Brian) Manburg, and Rose (Andrew) Archer; his beloved nieces and nephews, Sean, Nylah, Lailah, Anthony, Anyah, Gabriel, Judah, Benjamin, and Isaac; a host of beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins; and treasured friends from every corner of his full life. Samuel possessed a rare combination of brilliance and humility, strength and gentleness. His laughter, his insight, and his steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Though his passing leaves an irreplaceable void, Samuel’s life leaves an enduring imprint. He is forever in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace. Seating preference is for immediate family, close friends of Sam, and our church leadership. We encourage all other guest to meet the family at New Life Presbyterian Church, 6600 Old National Highway, Atlanta, GA 30349, where services will be streamed, and the repast will be held. Condolences may be sent to Sam’s mother, Rev. Robin Briggs, 2236 Old Villa Rica Road, Unit 414, Powder Springs, GA 30127; and to Sr. Bishop and Mrs. Lawrence Reddick, 1110 New Britain Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA 30331. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in honor of Samuel L. Reddick, be sent to one of Sam’s favorite charities, World Vision, https://www.worldvision.org. The Celebration of Life Service for Samuel L. Reddick will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM. This service will be recorded and streamed live. If the event is interrupted at any time due to technical issues, the entire event will be uploaded and available to view later in the day. Please copy and paste the link to share, or simply click on the link to view the event. https://vimeo.com/event/5853036

Tributes

Samuel Lawrence Reddick

October 22, 1992 - April 2, 2026