Sam Joseph Messina

Sam Joseph Messina, 80, passed away peacefully on November 23rd, 2016 in Houston, Texas. Sam was born and raised in Houston, Texas to Charles and Bessie Messina on January 7th, 1936. As a young man, he enjoyed helping his father with the family business.

He graduated from John H. Reagan High School where he met the love of his life Josephine Messina. Sam spent more than 40 years in the tile and masonry business and was personally involved in many prominent construction projects including the building of MD Anderson Cancer Center, Jones Hall, Hermann Hospital and many more. He was a teacher in the apprenticeship program through the Tile Setters Union Local 20. He enjoyed gardening, casino trips, managing his rental properties and family gatherings.

Sam was preceded in death by parents Charles and Bessie Messina; sisters Katherine Brocato, Bessie Frenza and Marie Mancuso. Sam is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Josephine Messina; children Charles and spouse Elizabeth Messina, Teresa and spouse Daryl Dornak, Lee and spouse Traci Messina and Tina and spouse Brian Slansky; grandchildren Tara and Robert Gates, Blake Dornak, Sam G. Messina, Allen Messina, Jake Messina, Gia Messina, Aiden Slansky and Dylan Slansky; great-grandchildren Brynleigh Gates and Brooks Gates; sister Josephine Salvage; many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Pallbearers include: Jake Messina, Allen Messina, Blake Dornak, Daryl Dornak, Brian Slansky and Tim Messina. Honorary pallbearers include Aiden Slansky, Dylan Slansky, Sam G. Messina, Robert Gates, Sammy Brocato and Louis Emola.