Sam was born to Francisco Mata and Rumalda Reyes, October of 1933, in San Benito, Texas. He married Elia Mata in January of 1953, and they lived together in Houston, Texas. Together they raised three children.
Sam is survived by his loving wife Elia Mata, his son Samuel Mata Sr. and wife Mary, and his grandchildren Brian Rodriguez and wife Rebecca, Celeste Trevino, Samuel Mata Jr. and wife Christina, Lisa Airhart and husband Derrick, and Lorin Zavala and husband Eddie. He also leaves to cherish his memory his fourteen great-grandchildren Sabrina, Savana, Alicia, Abella, Christian, Adin, Austyn, Isaiah, Aelynn, Xander, Tyler, Celeste, Stephanie and Casey.
He was preceded in death by his siblings, and his daughters Yolanda Trevino (nee Mata) and Rosa “Rosie” Mata.
Sam worked as a Carpenter for the Carpenters Union for 20 years. He enjoyed bowling, baseball (especially his Astros), music and tinkering in his workshop. He was also actively involved with the Precinct 2 Inner City Senior Program at the Denver Harbor Senior Center.
A viewing is scheduled for July 25th 2023 at 5 pm at Forest Park Lawndale’s Grand Chapel, and the service will be held on July 26th at 9 am at Forest Park Lawndale. A graveside service will occur Wednesday, July 26, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023. David Airhart will officiate the ceremony.
The family requests that any donations be made to the Jacinto City United Methodist Church. The family would also like to thank God for allowing him to bless all of our lives for so many years.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ForestParkLawndaleFH.com for the Mata family.
