Longtime Columbia businessman and philanthropist, Sam Elkins, died this past Monday. In the last few years he struggled with a severe back and other health problems and ultimately succumbed after a battle with cancer. When I think of my friend Sam, I think of the first time I met him out at Wildewood Country Club. My playing group caught up with him, and he was walking 18-holes with a big cigar in the middle of his mouth (try hitting a golf ball while smoking a cigar – LOL!) He was a longtime life/health insurance agent and was a shining example of customer service. He was a national leader in insurance sales and won many awards, including the Million Dollar Club. He served his community on numerous boards and commissions and was a generous philanthropist, often anonymously. Sam is survived by his very talented wife, Toni Elkins, a premier artist in her own right, and two children and four grandsons.

Sam taught me lots of things that I will cherish and among these are his attention to detail, his exemplary customer service, his tireless work ethic, his friendly demeanor, and man was he a snazzy dresser! To paraphrase a quote from Ric Flair, to be the man, you have to look like the man!

Sam, you were THE MAN! Your memory lives on forever!