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July 23, 1993 – June 2, 2023
Samuel Thomas Grindstaff, 29, of Elizabethton, Tenn., passed away on June 2, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones after a sudden brief illness. He was born on July 23, 1993, in Johnson City, Tenn., to Melissa Grindstaff Pruett and Jesse Miller. He was known by many as Tommy and others called him Sam.
Tommy was a kind and compassionate person who believed in equality and never judged anyone for who they were. He always had a smile on his face and was known to touch the lives of many across the United States and beyond. He had a heart of gold and will be missed by all who knew him.
Tommy had a love for gaming, which he developed at a young age while playing with his dad, Chris. This love for gaming stayed with him throughout his life, and he made many friends from all over the world. He also enjoyed fishing and going to car shows with his father, Jesse, on the weekends.
Tommy’s family and friends will gather to share memories and celebrate his life on July 2 at a local park. He wasn’t a traditional person and didn’t wish for a traditional funeral service.
Tommy is survived by his mother, Melissa Pruett, and Dad, Chris Pruett; his father and step-mom, Jesse and Martha, and brother, Josh Miller; step-brother, Allen Bell of North Carolina; grandparents, Luther and Janice Grindstaff, Connie Birchfield, Graylon Grindstaff and Lula Birchfield; uncles, Jeff Taylor, Eddie Grindstaff, John Grindstaff and Jason Berry; and several cousins, great-aunts and great-uncles.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Janie and Mack Miller, Dave Birchfield, Andy and Ruth Grindstaff and Patty Chambers.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any condolences, plants, or donations be sent to his mother’s residence. Those who wish to do so can ask anyone who knew him for his address.