Sam Sidney Stitt

Sam Sidney Stitt, Jr., a beloved member of the Covington community, passed on December 12, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, brother, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and friend.

He was born and raised in Covington and was preceded in death by his parents Sam Sidney Stitt Sr. and Doris Kinney Stitt Buford Wooten. He is survived by his loving wife, Gwinn Rhodes Stitt, and together, they created a beautiful family filled with love, support, and cherished memories. He was a proud Father to his children Mitchell Rhodes Stitt (Tiffany), Morgan Stitt Davanzo, Charles Coleman Stitt (Adam), and Bennett Hall Stitt.  His Grandchildren, Ayden Robert Davanzo, Sidney Maurae Davanzo, Davis Christopher Davanzo, Pierce Rhodes Stitt, and Margaux Elise Stitt, brought immense joy to his life, and he truly treasured the special moments he spent with his family.

He is also survived by his sisters Anne Stitt Elam (nieces Michelle Manzo and Amy Manzo Dugger) and Charlotte Stitt Gordon (nephew Nathan Gordon), his great nieces and nephews, and his extended Huffman family.  

Upon graduating from the University of Tennessee, Sam embarked on a lifelong career as the owner of Tipton County Insurance, later Partnering to form McBride & Stitt Insurance, then McGowan-Stitt Insurance. Sam built a successful business through the dedicated, trustworthy, and service-minded mindset he lived by. He truly cared for his clients and employees as he did his family and friends.

Throughout his life, Sam selflessly served his community and church. His commitment to his faith and his dedication to serving others was evident in everything he did. He was passionate about making a positive impact for others and actively participated in various organizations and community service. As a Member of The Covington Rotary Club (former President), The Board of Directors of The Tipton County Chamber of Commerce (former President) and a founding Board Member of The Boys & Girls Club of the Hatchie River Region, his leadership and mentorship played an integral role in shaping and strengthening his community, as well as everyone who knew him.

In addition to his community involvement, Sam served his childhood church faithfully. As a Deacon and Finance chair, he contributed immensely to the spiritual growth and financial stability of the congregation. He also played a critical role in restoring the Mt. Carmel Presbyterian Church and cemetery. He truly exemplified the mantra of “Service Over Self”, and his favorite quote was “It is Easier to build Strong Children than repair broken men” by Fredrick Douglas.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 16 at the Covington First United Methodist Church with interment to follow in Indian Creek Cemetery in Brighton.  The family will receive friends from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. on Friday, December 15 at the church.

In honor of Sam’s memory, the family kindly requests Memorial Donations to one of the organizations listed below. By giving, you will be contributing to Sam’s legacy of making a difference in the lives of others and building strong foundations for our youth.

Locally: (Please note “in memory of Sam Stitt” so the family can express their appreciation)

Boys & Girls Club of the Hatchie River Region

412 Alston Circle

Covington, TN 38019

Methodist Pres. Nursery School

c/o First United Methodist

145 W Church Ave.

St. Jude Children’s Hospital

http://fundraising.stjude.org/goto/samstitt