Sammy Cledis Couch

Sammy Cledis Couch, 72, of Inola, Oklahoma, passed away on September 1, 2026. Born on July 18, 1954, in Gainesville, Georgia, Sammy grew up in Weaver, Alabama, where he developed his love of motorcycles, hot rods, and the mechanical and carpentry skills that shaped his life.

Sammy spent his career working in construction, carpentry, heavy equipment operation, and truck driving, earning a reputation as a hardworking, capable, and dependable craftsman.

Beyond his work, Sammy was a beloved figure in the Inola community. For many years, he was known for playing Santa Claus, bringing joy to children and families with his humor and warm spirit. He also became a familiar sight in local parades, proudly riding his custom trike motorcycle, a machine he poured countless hours of care and creativity into. Sammy didn’t just participate—he won several competitions with that trike, earning admiration for both his craftsmanship and his showmanship.

Sammy also loved building, working on, and riding his trike with his friend Glenn and others who shared his passion for the open road. Together, they traveled across the country—from the East Coast to the West—creating memories on long rides that brought Sammy joy, freedom, and lifelong friendships.

At home, Sammy was known for being an excellent griller, especially when it came to steaks and BBQ chicken. His cooking became a staple at family gatherings, where his skill at the grill—and the pride he took in it—added warmth and flavor to countless shared moments.

In 1974, Sammy met the love of his life, Joan Anita Breidling, at a party at his sister Katrina’s house while recovering from a 3-story fall on a job site. This was the first of many times Joan nursed him back to health. Their journey took them across several states before they ultimately made their forever home in Inola, Oklahoma—a place family and friends knew as YaYa and PaPa’s house.

Sammy is survived by his stepchildren: Mickey Webb, D’Ann Johnson, and Marc Richardson (Samara). He is also survived by his grandchildren: D’aven Johnson, David Johnson, Willa Richardson, Hanna Richardson, Dalen Johnson, and Shae Watson (Trinity); as well as his great‑grandchildren: Lively, Arena, and Sermon Watson, his newest and youngest great‑grandchild.

Also surviving are his sisters: Katrina Embler (Donnie) of Thomasville, North Carolina, and Aledia Combs (Ernie) of Anniston, Alabama; and his nephews, Michael (Sandra) Truett and Kelvin (Shelley) Robershaw.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan; his brother, Quin Couch; his mother, Tommie Brown; and his father, Otis Couch.

A memorial service celebrating Sammy’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at the Inola Funeral Home.