Sam Lewis Batton
Sam Lewis Batton, 93, of Grottoes, Virginia, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family and friends. Born on November 4, 1932, in Lynwood, Virginia, Sam lived a life defined by faith, service, family, and community.
A proud patriot, Sam served more than 20 years in the United States Navy, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer (CWO3) after a distinguished career as a Shipfitter. Known for his technical expertise, steady leadership, and unwavering integrity, Sam’s service was not simply a career—it was a calling. The values of duty, honor, and commitment guided him throughout his life.
After retiring from the Navy, Sam returned home to the land he loved, becoming a farmer and later a Master Gardener. His garden was both his passion and his ministry—carefully tended, generously shared, and admired by all who knew him. It reflected who he was: patient, hardworking, humble, and deeply rooted. He freely shared vegetables, plants, advice, and stories, finding joy in nurturing both the soil and the people around him.
Sam was a man of deep and abiding faith. He was a devoted member of Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, where he faithfully served as a Vestry member and supported countless church ministries. His life reflected his belief in quiet service, generosity, and stewardship.
His commitment to community was extraordinary. Sam served on the Grottoes Volunteer Fire Department Board, was an active member of the Grottoes and Elkton Ruritan Clubs--receiving numerous volunteer awards, and proudly served as Commander of VFW Post 2698. He founded and volunteered monthly at the East Rockingham Food Bank, donating not only his time but his leadership and heart. Known for his tireless volunteerism, Sam believed that giving back was simply part of being human.
Above all, Sam was a devoted family man. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of many years, Geneva Rose Morris Batton, who passed in 2016; his parents, Algreatus Jackson “Allen” Batton and Sadie Bessie Via Batton; his son, Stan Batton; and his siblings, Clarence Allen Batton, Edward Daniel Batton, Homer Winston Batton, Earl Jason Batten, and Herbert Hoover Batton.
He is survived by his children: Stephanie Parrish; Alan Batton and his wife, Emma; Matthew Batton and his partner, Randy; and Sammy Batton and his wife, Jennifer. He is also survived by his sister, Betty Jane McGee.
Sam was a proud grandfather to Sarah Garringer, Merri Tyrrel, Michelle Lopez, Algreatus Batton, Kyle Batton, Kristina Jette, Jessica Batton and Jonathon Batton. He was blessed with 15 great-grandchildren and 9 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him great joy.
Sam will be remembered as a man devoted to God, country, family, and community—a man whose hands were rarely still, whose heart was always open, and whose legacy continues to grow in the lives he touched. He was known for his integrity, his generosity, his stories, his garden, and his unwavering commitment to service.
Visitation will be held at Johnson’s Funeral Home in Grottoes, Virginia on January 9 from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Funeral service will be held at Grace Memorial Episcopal Church in Lynwood, Virginia on January 10 at 10:00 a.m. and burial with military honors at Port Republic Cemetery.
A meal and time of fellowship will be held afterwards at the Grottoes Volunteer Fire Department Social Hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Sam’s honor to Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, the Grottoes Volunteer Fire Department, The Sheepdog Coalition or Food for the Poor.
Sam Lewis Batton lived a life of purpose and quiet strength. His legacy—like the seeds he planted so faithfully—will continue to grow for generations to come.
