Samuel Dixon "Sam" Cooper, 75, passed away on April 23, 2026, in Houston, Texas. Born on June 23, 1950, in East Bernard, Sam lived a remarkable life filled with innovation, adventure, and dedication to his family.

Sam proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy. His time in the Navy instilled in him a sense of discipline and determination. One of Sam's proudest achievements was inventing the self-inflating containment boom for oil spill cleanup, for which he was awarded a U.S. Patent. His work took him across the globe as he installed these systems and trained crews on their use.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Sam was a man of many interests and hobbies. He found joy in racing sailboats, riding his motorcycle, telling stories, tinkering and fixing things, chatting with strangers, and playing dominoes with anyone who happened to be close by. Sam's greatest joy came from his family. He loved traveling with his beloved wife of 50 years, Mary. He loved his children and would brag on them loudly and often. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and being the most fun and loving "Pops" anyone could ask for. He loved going over to visit with his mom, Georgia, and helping out around the property of his childhood home. He lived life to the fullest, bringing his infectious joy and energy to everything he did.

Sam is survived by his devoted wife Mary; their children Joshua (Janet), Crystle (Chad Briggs), and Jeremy; and his cherished grandchildren Oliver Cooper, Wesley, Joe and Charlie Briggs, and Emma and Demi Cooper. He is also survived by his mother Georgia and his brothers Tom, Randy, Joe, Chris, and Scott. Sam was predeceased by his father Sidney.

Those who knew Sam will remember him as an outgoing and thoughtful individual whose presence brought warmth (and a practical joke or two) to every room he entered. His memory will live on through the lives he touched and the legacy he leaves behind.

May Sam's memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Klein Funeral Home - CyFair Northwest, 9719 Wortham Blvd., Houston, TX 77065. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at The Foundry Church, 8350 Jones Rd., Houston, TX 77065, with a visitation from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. There will be a reception at the church immediately following the service. Interment with military honors will take place at Houston National Cemetery. A procession will depart from the church following the reception at 1:30 p.m.