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William Jay Sams

Monday, August 11, 2025 at 2:20 PM

By Brittany Gasama

William Jay Sams, 72, passed away on August 4th.

William Jay Sams was born on September 19, 1952 in Cincinnati, Ohio, one of two children to Jay & Velma Sams. He grew up in Cincinnati, graduating from Anderson High School before furthering his education at Cincinnati Technical College. On October 27, 1973 in Cincinnati, he married his sweetheart, Ronna (née Homan), beginning a lifelong partnership filled with devotion and love.

A talented and professional guitarist and singer, Jay made music his sole profession in his early years, performing alongside many accomplished artists. As his family grew, he returned home from his travel gigs to open and operate a successful construction company specializing in refurbishing homes and commercial buildings that had undergone fire damage. Music remained a constant thread throughout Jay’s life. Even as he built his business and cared for his family, he could often be found sharing his talent at weekend performances and special events.

Jay enjoyed all sports. He was able to express his competitive side and enjoy camaraderie playing softball. A round of golf was another sport he enjoyed, relishing the connections and fun these pastimes brought him.

His greatest joy in life centered around his family. He adored his wife, Ronna Sams of Branson West; his daughters, Kelly Skoglund (Scott) of Branson and Kayce Sams of Branson West; grandchildren, Lucy Bose, Jonathan Jay Bose, Emma Skoglund and Eleanor Skoglund as well as his two canine friends, Moose and Rosie.  He is also survived by his sister, Patti Ballachino of Dayton, OH and many friends and colleagues who will miss his presence.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Jay and Velma and his brother-in-law, Carl Ballachino.

He will be laid to rest at a later date in Cincinnati.  Cremation arrangements were in the care of Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory, Branson.

Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory

1638 East State Hwy 76

Branson, MO  65616

417-334-3670 (tele)

417-336-3670 (fax)

 

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