Sam Crews, Iii

Samuel Francis "Sam" Crews, III, 73, died at home in Hampton, S.C. early Sunday morning, April 12, 2026, after a brief illness.

Sam was born August 18, 1952 in Hampton Hospital to the late Ruth Elizabeth "Betty Ruth" Ayer Crews and Samuel Francis "S.F." Crews, Jr.. He was a graduate of Wade Hampton High School class of 1970 and from Clemson University class of 1973 where he was student body President and a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. He also graduated from the University of South Carolina School of Law.

Sam lived 38 years in Columbia, S.C., where he practiced law and notably worked with many adoptions during his time as an attorney. Sam returned "home" to Hampton to care for his beloved mother, Betty Ruth, and worked as a teacher in the Hampton County school systems where he left a lasting impact on the lives of many children and young adults.

Mr. Crews' passion was history - specifically Hampton County and South Carolina. He worked passionately to preserve history and never missed an opportunity to tell others about it. Additionally he was a "genealogy nut" who traced the family trees of many families throughout South Carolina. Many may recall that he was able to tell them more about their families than they were!

Sam was an active member and Senior Warden of All Saints Episcopal Church in Hampton, a longtime member of the Hampton County Historical Society, supporter of the Hampton County Museum, and supporter of anything involving a positive image for Hampton County.  Additionally, he took leadership roles with the Camellia Ball, was a member of the Silver Society, and a member of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Columbia. A proud fan of the Clemson Tigers; he also enjoyed playing bridge and spending time with his family (especially his grandchildren) and many friends.

Mr. Crews is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Samuel Francis Crews, IV and Mary Margaret Collins Crews of Cayce, S.C. and their son and daughter, Samuel Francis Crews, V and Holland Ruth Crews; his daughter, Margaret Weston Fraser Crews and her husband Robert Baddour of New Orleans, LA and their daughters, Elizabeth Louise Baddour and Elaine Fraser Baddour, and his youngest daughter Elizabeth Copeland Crews of New Orleans, LA. There are also many beloved cousins and friends who survive.

Graveside Memorial Services will be held 2 PM Friday, April 17, 2026 in the Hampton Cemetery, Holly Street Extension, Hampton, S.C., 29924 with Rev. Jack Neitert and Rev. Jack Hutto officiating.

Following the service the family will receive friends for a time of visitation at the Crews' residence located at 113 Railroad Avenue East, Hampton, S.C. 29924 until 5:30 PM.

For those who care to send memorials in Mr. Crews' name, the family suggests the Hampton Cemetery Committee, c/o Linda O'Quinn, 402 Shaw Drive, Hampton, S.C. 29924 or the Hampton County Historical Society , Post Office Box 152, Hampton, S.C. 29924.

Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home, which was founded by his great-grandfather Eugene Murrell Peeples, is assisting the Crews family during this time.