Manuel “Sam” Farris

In Loving Memory of Manuel “Sam” John Farris

“Coach Sam” • “Sambo”

May 20, 1944 – August 30, 2026

Manuel John Farris, affectionately known as “Sambo” and “Coach Sam,” age 82, passed away on August 30, 2026. He was born on May 20, 1944, in Jellico, Tennessee.

Survived by his beloved nieces and nephews, Robbin Smith, Sheila Farris, Ronnie Farris, Alex Brown, Ulis Roberts, and Lucis Farris. As well many great-nieces and nephews and his best friend, his dog Duce and special friend Valerie England Day.

Coach Sam was a truly special person whose presence brought smiles, laughter, and kindness wherever he went. He never met a stranger, and his big heart made him loved by so many throughout the Jellico community.

One thing everyone knew about Coach Sam was that he was a huge Tennessee Vols fan. Whether he was proudly dressed in his UT gear or sitting back watching the game, cheering for the Vols was one of his favorite things to do. His love for the Vols was a big part of who he was.

But perhaps nothing meant more to Sam than his Jellico community. He was a familiar and beloved face around town, always out making his rounds. You could often find him at Buck’s Hardware Store, Fast Track, acting as security, or passing through the barber shop. Sam had a way of making himself a part of the everyday life of Jellico, and the community loved him right back.

Coach Sam especially loved being involved with the Jellico Elementary School football team. He enjoyed being around the boys and teaching them lessons both on and off the field. He loved kids and had a special way of connecting with them. In many ways, Sam was just a big kid himself, full of joy, energy, and an eagerness to be involved.

Sam was also proud to participate in the Special Olympics, where he earned several medals. His accomplishments were something to celebrate, but those who knew him will remember that his greatest gift was simply being Sam.

His life and unique personality were so special that a documentary was made about him, helping capture the story of a man who meant so much to his community.

Sam was also honored to serve as the Grand Marshal of the Jellico Christmas Parade last Christmas, a fitting tribute to someone who had become such an important and recognizable part of the community he loved.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents, John Farris Jr. and Ada Farris; his brother, Ulis Roberts; and his sisters, Jo Florence Farris and Gwendolyn Farris.

Those who knew Coach Sam will remember his infectious personality, his kindness, his love for children, his dedication to Jellico, his passion for the Vols, and the way he could make just about anyone feel like a friend.

Jellico has lost one of its most familiar and beloved faces. Though Coach Sam is no longer walking the streets of the town he loved, making his rounds and checking on everyone, his memory will remain a part of the community for generations to come.

Funeral service 12 noon Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Llewellyn Funeral Home Chapel in Jellico, Tennessee with Rev. Gerald Littlejohn officiating. Friends and family will meet for visitation from 10:30 am until the funeral hour at 12 noon. Interment will follow in the Greenwood Cemetery Jellico, Tennessee.

Serving as pallbearers, Robert Fuqua III., Robert Fuqua Sr., Jeff Tye, Alex Brown, Ulis Roberts and Lucis Farris.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation for the many acts of kindness and expressions of sympathy shown in their hour of bereavement.

Rest easy, Coach Sam.

Your work here is done, but your legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew you.

The Llewellyn Funeral Home of Jellico honored to serve the Farris family.

Go Vols! 🧡🤍