Sam Abbey, aged 65, of North East, MD, and Hialeah, FL, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, February 19, 2013 in Hialeah, FL. He was born on August 14, 1947 in Denton, TX to Hazel Belcher Abbey and the late Donald Sam Abbey. Sam was devoted to the horse racing industry and had a career thatContinue Reading
Sam Abbey, aged 65, of North East, MD, and Hialeah, FL, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, February 19, 2013 in Hialeah, FL.
He was born on August 14, 1947 in Denton, TX to Hazel Belcher Abbey and the late Donald Sam Abbey. Sam was devoted to the horse racing industry and had a career that spanned over 43 years. Over his career he was the Director of Racing at Delaware Park, Atlantic City Race Track, and the Fair Grounds in New Orleans and spent the last 23 years at Hialeah Park Race Track.
Sam loved playing golf, camping in the mountains, gardening and working on his farm. What he loved most were the people in his life and being with his family and friends, who will all miss him dearly.
Sam is survived by his wife of 43 years, Cheryl (Peterson) Abbey of North East, MD; mother, Hazel (Belcher) Abbey of Pilot Point, TX; sons, Jason Abbey and wife Jeannie of Rising Sun, MD and Justin Abbey and wife Karin of Elmer, NJ; daughter, Jennifer Hamer of North East, MD; grandchildren, Jacob, Josh, Ian, Kieran, Mia, Severin, Liam, and Trey; brother, Joe Abbey of Pilot Point, TX; and sister, Susan Pasquini of Grenada.
He was preceaded in death by his father, Donald and sister, Cathy Morrissey.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am on Monday, February 25, 2013 at Hialeah Park Race Track, 2200 East 4th Avenue, Hialeah, FL 33010 in the 3rd floor clubhouse. There will also be another Memorial Service held at 2:00 pm on Monday, March 4, 2013 at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, 111 S. Queen St., Rising Sun, MD 21911. Friends and family may visit two hours prior beginning at 12 noon. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family.
Mike Barry
left a message on March 2, 2017:
Sam. Missing you dearly. We
Have a loss of your grandson now. I know he will be with you. And you will take care of him in the afterlife. You boys will play soccer every day togeather. And be apart of the abby life. No falt no plunder. Lets just be togeather. From here and forward. We love you All
Have a loss of your grandson now. I know he will be with you. And you will take care of him in the afterlife. You boys will play soccer every day togeather. And be apart of the abby life. No falt no plunder. Lets just be togeather. From here and forward. We love you All
Mike Barry
left a message on March 2, 2017:
Sam. Missing you dearly. We
Have a loss of your grandson now. I know he will be with you. And you will take care of him in the afterlife. You boys will play soccer every day togeather. And be apart of the abby life. No falt no plunder. Lets just be togeather. From here and forward. We love you All
Have a loss of your grandson now. I know he will be with you. And you will take care of him in the afterlife. You boys will play soccer every day togeather. And be apart of the abby life. No falt no plunder. Lets just be togeather. From here and forward. We love you All
Devin Cousins
left a message on November 25, 2013:
I had the opportunity to work with Sam in the racing office during the 2010 summer meet at Monmouth Park. He taught me so much more than I ever knew about the industry previously in those few short months, and always had me laughing and smiling with his jokes and jolly personality. Sam was such a great guy to work for, and I am so glad I got to know him, and wish I had gotten to spend more time with him. RIP buddy.
Julie Cornell DVM
left a message on May 13, 2013:
I met Sam during the 2013 season at Hialeah when he hired me to be the track veterinarian. It turned out that his sister and her husband had been professors of mine in vet school....small world....I am deeply saddened by your loss but thankful for the opportunity to have met and worked with Sam....my sincerest condolences...
Stacy O'Neill
left a message on March 27, 2013:
there is not a day that goes by that I don't think about sam. some with a smile, others with tears. I know he would much prefer the smiles than the tears but sometimes I just can't help it. sitting here in florida I feel that i'm just waiting for November to come around and he'll be back. I miss him so much.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Tara Reffner
left a message on March 17, 2013:
I just met Sam Abby in December looking for a stall for my lead pony. I usually go to Gulfstream, but with Calder charging for stalls, Gulfstream was full. Sam was such a help to me-giving me a stall for my lead pony so i could work at Hialeah for the winter. I am so happy that I got to thank him before he passed away. I just wanted everyone to know that Sam helped me when no one else would. Thank You
Heather Abbey-Swope
left a message on March 6, 2013:
I am sickened by this tragedy - Sambo was such a wonderful man, kind and larger than life. I always wished that I could have spent more time with him at the track, learning the ins and outs. I was lucky enough the last two years to visit him at Hialeah while in Florida for horseshows in Wellington. The horse blood runs deep in the Abbey family - the last visit I had with him was in January 2013 when I invited myself and a friend to to stay with him at the last minute. We went to La Tub for dinner and then he and I sat up until the wee hours of the morning with him sharing stories of his life. I am so grateful for that time with him. Cheryl, I was so looking forward to the next chapter in your lives - hopefully being able to visit more, and really catch up at the Abbey family reunion this Summer. Each time I think of him I can hear his voice, gravelly and usually including a choice word or two, with a smile in his eye and kindness in his heart.
Katie D Morris
left a message on March 5, 2013:
Dear Cheryl All of us here from Buck's Tavern would like to express our sympathy to you and your family. We had the pleasure of getting to know Sam and very much enjoyed all the stories he would share with us from time to time. I personally enjoyed all the information he would share with me about horses. We will all miss him and may God bless you and your family. Katie D God bless you
Lori Miller
left a message on March 4, 2013:
So very sorry for the loss of Sam. He was a genuine caring man. My prayers to the family and especially his grandkids. Your grandfather truly loved all of you.RIP SAM.
Oscar & Toni
left a message on March 4, 2013:
We will miss you, Sam. Thank you for your friendship and ability to make me laugh when times are tough - because of that, you've given me a thicker skin to weather this industry. Although many have not had the chance to see, you had a very big heart which I admired most. Rest in peace, my friend.
Donna Saglimbeni
left a message on March 3, 2013:
Justin, Jenn and Family, May you find comfort and strength knowing that you are in hearts and thoughts of those who love you. Sorry for your loss. The Salgimbeni and Jost Families
Brad, Sherry & Ericka O'Brien
left a message on March 3, 2013:
Our prayers and heartfelt sympathies go out to Cheryl and all of Sam's family. We have only been neighbors for a short time but, in that short time we got to know Sam as a very caring and genuine person that would do anything for you. He will be missed.
Ronald L. Voss, III
left a message on March 3, 2013:
I mirror Ross's comments. No matter how late we stayed out in AC or at Delaware, he would look at you and say Cheryl's waiting for me. You either got Sam or you didn't. I'm glad I did.
Tracy and Mike Lakow
left a message on March 2, 2013:
Sams smile and memories will live on forever..We send our love and thoughts to Cheryl, Justin, Jason and Ginny and all the grandkids...Even though Sam is gone he will never be forgotten.....All our love Tracy,Mike,Corey and Alix
Mike Barry
left a message on March 2, 2013:
Big Daddy, You’re above us now like you always have been. I will miss you forever as a best friend. And will never forget you, your smirk, and your crooked smile. The chuckle that your friends new you by. I’m not done with you yet. So I will see you in the next life and we will have our times again. Love , Your best friend Mike Barry.
Eamon Daly
left a message on March 2, 2013:
Sam was such a dynamic and wonderful person. He was a true and dear friend. I have such great memories of him that I will hold in my heart forever. My thoughts and wishes of peace and sympathy are with all of Sam's family during this time. He was a treasure and will be missed.
John Hernandez
left a message on March 1, 2013:
I had the privilege of working one season at Hialeah Park with Sam. He treated me respectfully.
Ross Pearce
left a message on February 27, 2013:
Dear Cheryl and kids, I am so sorry for the loss of Sam; he was one of my best friends, and I loved him dearly! I will miss him forever, as I know you will! He loved you guys with all his heart, and you were his pride and joy. He always told me stories of his family's achievements, and you were in his heart every moment of his life! I will be at the service, but if there is anything I can do before then, please call me. Love, Ross
Kate Griggel
left a message on February 25, 2013:
My deepest sympathies, Cheryl. I am praying for you and your family at this extremely difficult time. Words cannot ease your pain, but please know that I am here for whatever you need. Love and prayers, Kate
John DAgusto
left a message on February 25, 2013:
I knew Sam for many years and as I rode at Delaware and AC he helped me and was in my corner in many instances... Sam was one of the good guys for sure! He will be missed! My prayers are with him and his loved ones.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Lee Gott
left a message on February 25, 2013:
Im sorry to learn of your lose. Its never easy as Im sitting here writing this my father just passed tonight---my heart sinks.for you and your family. Prayers out to you all. Lee
DENNIS AND REBECCA JUSTIN
left a message on February 25, 2013:
Having known and been close friends with Sam for 48 of my 64 years, I offer sympathy to his wonderful family at this untimely departure. Sam had a heart of gold and no matter how many years between visits, we would alway go back to our deep friendship and the probing questions of what was really going on in our lives. Sam had a caring heart and we his friends loved him and greatly admired his dedication to his family. We are so sad at this loss, and offer Cheryl and family our deepest sympathy. Love, Dennis and Rebecca Justin, Carson City, NV
Steve and Shanon Epley
left a message on February 25, 2013:
We send our deepest condolences. Sam was always very good to us in the Racing industry and will be sorely missed. We are praying for you all.
christy salo
left a message on February 24, 2013:
Dearest Cheryl and Family, Although my heart is heavy, it is also light, filled with the humor, love and warmth of who Sam was. He was quite a guy. My deepest of condolences to all of you at this time. With love, Christy
Sylvia Martinez
left a message on February 24, 2013:
Cheryl, my deepest condolences to you and the rest of the family. Sam will be deeply missed at Hialeah Park and in our hearts forever he was a great man who loved what he did everyday he came to work. If you ever need anything from us you know how to reach us, much love. Sylvia Martinez
Jack and Terry Houghton
left a message on February 24, 2013:
So sorry to hear of Sam's passing..Prayers to the family.
Brett and Luann
left a message on February 23, 2013:
Our condolenses to SAMs family and friends! We love you Sam, may you rest in peace!
Rick Flounders
left a message on February 23, 2013:
Cheryl, So sorry to hear of your husbands passing. Reading his memorial, he must have been a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend. Sincere sympathy to you and your family. Sincerely, Rick
Paula Ray Crowsey
left a message on February 23, 2013:
Rest in peace, Sambo.Z
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Mike Barry
left a message on March 2, 2017:
Sam. Missing you dearly. We
Have a loss of your grandson now. I know he will be with you. And you will take care of him in the afterlife. You boys will play soccer every day togeather. And be apart of the abby life. No falt no plunder. Lets just be togeather. From here and forward. We love you All
Have a loss of your grandson now. I know he will be with you. And you will take care of him in the afterlife. You boys will play soccer every day togeather. And be apart of the abby life. No falt no plunder. Lets just be togeather. From here and forward. We love you All
Mike Barry
left a message on March 2, 2017:
Sam. Missing you dearly. We
Have a loss of your grandson now. I know he will be with you. And you will take care of him in the afterlife. You boys will play soccer every day togeather. And be apart of the abby life. No falt no plunder. Lets just be togeather. From here and forward. We love you All
Have a loss of your grandson now. I know he will be with you. And you will take care of him in the afterlife. You boys will play soccer every day togeather. And be apart of the abby life. No falt no plunder. Lets just be togeather. From here and forward. We love you All
Devin Cousins
left a message on November 25, 2013:
I had the opportunity to work with Sam in the racing office during the 2010 summer meet at Monmouth Park. He taught me so much more than I ever knew about the industry previously in those few short months, and always had me laughing and smiling with his jokes and jolly personality. Sam was such a great guy to work for, and I am so glad I got to know him, and wish I had gotten to spend more time with him. RIP buddy.
Julie Cornell DVM
left a message on May 13, 2013:
I met Sam during the 2013 season at Hialeah when he hired me to be the track veterinarian. It turned out that his sister and her husband had been professors of mine in vet school....small world....I am deeply saddened by your loss but thankful for the opportunity to have met and worked with Sam....my sincerest condolences...
Stacy O'Neill
left a message on March 27, 2013:
there is not a day that goes by that I don't think about sam. some with a smile, others with tears. I know he would much prefer the smiles than the tears but sometimes I just can't help it. sitting here in florida I feel that i'm just waiting for November to come around and he'll be back. I miss him so much.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Tara Reffner
left a message on March 17, 2013:
I just met Sam Abby in December looking for a stall for my lead pony. I usually go to Gulfstream, but with Calder charging for stalls, Gulfstream was full. Sam was such a help to me-giving me a stall for my lead pony so i could work at Hialeah for the winter. I am so happy that I got to thank him before he passed away. I just wanted everyone to know that Sam helped me when no one else would. Thank You
Heather Abbey-Swope
left a message on March 6, 2013:
I am sickened by this tragedy - Sambo was such a wonderful man, kind and larger than life. I always wished that I could have spent more time with him at the track, learning the ins and outs. I was lucky enough the last two years to visit him at Hialeah while in Florida for horseshows in Wellington. The horse blood runs deep in the Abbey family - the last visit I had with him was in January 2013 when I invited myself and a friend to to stay with him at the last minute. We went to La Tub for dinner and then he and I sat up until the wee hours of the morning with him sharing stories of his life. I am so grateful for that time with him. Cheryl, I was so looking forward to the next chapter in your lives - hopefully being able to visit more, and really catch up at the Abbey family reunion this Summer. Each time I think of him I can hear his voice, gravelly and usually including a choice word or two, with a smile in his eye and kindness in his heart.
Katie D Morris
left a message on March 5, 2013:
Dear Cheryl All of us here from Buck's Tavern would like to express our sympathy to you and your family. We had the pleasure of getting to know Sam and very much enjoyed all the stories he would share with us from time to time. I personally enjoyed all the information he would share with me about horses. We will all miss him and may God bless you and your family. Katie D God bless you
Lori Miller
left a message on March 4, 2013:
So very sorry for the loss of Sam. He was a genuine caring man. My prayers to the family and especially his grandkids. Your grandfather truly loved all of you.RIP SAM.
Oscar & Toni
left a message on March 4, 2013:
We will miss you, Sam. Thank you for your friendship and ability to make me laugh when times are tough - because of that, you've given me a thicker skin to weather this industry. Although many have not had the chance to see, you had a very big heart which I admired most. Rest in peace, my friend.
Donna Saglimbeni
left a message on March 3, 2013:
Justin, Jenn and Family, May you find comfort and strength knowing that you are in hearts and thoughts of those who love you. Sorry for your loss. The Salgimbeni and Jost Families
Brad, Sherry & Ericka O'Brien
left a message on March 3, 2013:
Our prayers and heartfelt sympathies go out to Cheryl and all of Sam's family. We have only been neighbors for a short time but, in that short time we got to know Sam as a very caring and genuine person that would do anything for you. He will be missed.
Ronald L. Voss, III
left a message on March 3, 2013:
I mirror Ross's comments. No matter how late we stayed out in AC or at Delaware, he would look at you and say Cheryl's waiting for me. You either got Sam or you didn't. I'm glad I did.
Tracy and Mike Lakow
left a message on March 2, 2013:
Sams smile and memories will live on forever..We send our love and thoughts to Cheryl, Justin, Jason and Ginny and all the grandkids...Even though Sam is gone he will never be forgotten.....All our love Tracy,Mike,Corey and Alix
Mike Barry
left a message on March 2, 2013:
Big Daddy, You’re above us now like you always have been. I will miss you forever as a best friend. And will never forget you, your smirk, and your crooked smile. The chuckle that your friends new you by. I’m not done with you yet. So I will see you in the next life and we will have our times again. Love , Your best friend Mike Barry.
Eamon Daly
left a message on March 2, 2013:
Sam was such a dynamic and wonderful person. He was a true and dear friend. I have such great memories of him that I will hold in my heart forever. My thoughts and wishes of peace and sympathy are with all of Sam's family during this time. He was a treasure and will be missed.
John Hernandez
left a message on March 1, 2013:
I had the privilege of working one season at Hialeah Park with Sam. He treated me respectfully.
Ross Pearce
left a message on February 27, 2013:
Dear Cheryl and kids, I am so sorry for the loss of Sam; he was one of my best friends, and I loved him dearly! I will miss him forever, as I know you will! He loved you guys with all his heart, and you were his pride and joy. He always told me stories of his family's achievements, and you were in his heart every moment of his life! I will be at the service, but if there is anything I can do before then, please call me. Love, Ross
Kate Griggel
left a message on February 25, 2013:
My deepest sympathies, Cheryl. I am praying for you and your family at this extremely difficult time. Words cannot ease your pain, but please know that I am here for whatever you need. Love and prayers, Kate
John DAgusto
left a message on February 25, 2013:
I knew Sam for many years and as I rode at Delaware and AC he helped me and was in my corner in many instances... Sam was one of the good guys for sure! He will be missed! My prayers are with him and his loved ones.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Lee Gott
left a message on February 25, 2013:
Im sorry to learn of your lose. Its never easy as Im sitting here writing this my father just passed tonight---my heart sinks.for you and your family. Prayers out to you all. Lee
DENNIS AND REBECCA JUSTIN
left a message on February 25, 2013:
Having known and been close friends with Sam for 48 of my 64 years, I offer sympathy to his wonderful family at this untimely departure. Sam had a heart of gold and no matter how many years between visits, we would alway go back to our deep friendship and the probing questions of what was really going on in our lives. Sam had a caring heart and we his friends loved him and greatly admired his dedication to his family. We are so sad at this loss, and offer Cheryl and family our deepest sympathy. Love, Dennis and Rebecca Justin, Carson City, NV
Steve and Shanon Epley
left a message on February 25, 2013:
We send our deepest condolences. Sam was always very good to us in the Racing industry and will be sorely missed. We are praying for you all.
christy salo
left a message on February 24, 2013:
Dearest Cheryl and Family, Although my heart is heavy, it is also light, filled with the humor, love and warmth of who Sam was. He was quite a guy. My deepest of condolences to all of you at this time. With love, Christy
Sylvia Martinez
left a message on February 24, 2013:
Cheryl, my deepest condolences to you and the rest of the family. Sam will be deeply missed at Hialeah Park and in our hearts forever he was a great man who loved what he did everyday he came to work. If you ever need anything from us you know how to reach us, much love. Sylvia Martinez
Jack and Terry Houghton
left a message on February 24, 2013:
So sorry to hear of Sam's passing..Prayers to the family.
Brett and Luann
left a message on February 23, 2013:
Our condolenses to SAMs family and friends! We love you Sam, may you rest in peace!
Rick Flounders
left a message on February 23, 2013:
Cheryl, So sorry to hear of your husbands passing. Reading his memorial, he must have been a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend. Sincere sympathy to you and your family. Sincerely, Rick
Paula Ray Crowsey
left a message on February 23, 2013:
Rest in peace, Sambo.Z
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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