Sam Marshall Rainey

What counts in life is not merely that we have lived, but the difference we have made in the lives of others; that is what will determine the significance of the life we lead.

Obituary

Sam Marshall Rainey was born July 4, 1986 in Houston, Texas to Scott and Mary Lou Rainey. He passed unexpectedly on August 2, 2025 of diabetes and acute heart disease.

Sam grew up in Houston, Texas. Sam graduated UTSA in 2011 with a Bachelor’s degree in accounting and worked in the accounting field for several years, but never enjoyed the profession. Sam struggled with addiction for a number of years until he entered into The Last Resort Recovery Center in Smithville, Texas in 2021 where he decided to work towards a sober lifestyle. He moved to Dallas in 2021 to the Arbor Park sober living facility and became a part of the Dallas Recovery Community which provided inspiration and support for his sobriety. He also lived at Oxford House and was house manager for Turning Point Recovery Network. This would not have been accomplished without the support of his sponsors, close friends and local recovery community.

As a result of the support and interaction with the Dallas recovery community he returned to school in 2022 to obtain his Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor certificate. He completed the coursework for his LCDC and started to work for Discovery Point Retreat in Dallas, Texas in August 2023. In this position Sam found his dream job as a therapist at DPR where he was as happy as he had been in years. He cherished working with all the clients and his fellow employees. He had a support network of friends which he described as his Dallas recovery family. His recovery family was very special to him and he loved each one of them as brothers and sisters. He knew this is where he belonged and was truly grateful for all of those that supported him on his sobriety journey. Sam’s sobriety date was July 30, 2021 and his untimely death on August 2, 2021 was three days after he received his four-year sobriety chip. During this four-year period sobriety brought out the best of him as a father, son, uncle, nephew and cousin. The family was once again whole and we will all miss him.

Sam was proceeded in death by his aunt Jane Hayman and uncle James Coleman. He is survived by his daughter Natalja Alexander, parents Scott and Mary Lou Rainey, sister Kate Willson and her husband Scotty Willson, nephew Scotty Willson and niece Molly Willson, uncles Ron Rainey, Michael Jachimczyk and Peter Hayman, aunts Kay Rainey and Peggy Coleman and cousins Kayla and Kelli Rainey, Jack and Joey Coleman and Matt Jachimczyk. He also leaves behind his beloved cat, Dusty — a scrappy little friend he rescued from a dumpster, who became his steadfast companion and a comforting presence in his life.

Sam's Impact

Sam didn’t just live in recovery — he embodied it. His own sobriety was sacred to him, but it was never only about himself. From the moment he found his way out of the darkness, he made it his mission to return, time and time again, to walk alongside others still trapped there. He became a guide, a light, and a steady hand, saying without words, “Follow me — there is a way through this."
What had been freely given to him, he gave back with every ounce of his heart. He poured himself into this community without hesitation or reserve. The number of lives he touched, the hope he sparked, and the courage he helped awaken in others cannot be measured. From sunrise until the moment he closed his eyes at night, he was present — answering calls, offering encouragement, lending an ear, lifting spirits, and reminding people that they mattered and that recovery was possible.
Whether in the halls of DPR, on the streets of Dallas, or in quiet conversations that will never be written about, his presence was a constant source of inspiration. His impact will ripple through this community for years to come — in the people he helped save, in the hope he planted, and in the legacy of kindness, service, and unwavering commitment he leaves behind.
Though we grieve his passing, we know that his spirit will forever remain in the heart of Dallas’ recovery community. And within DPR, his work, his laughter, his compassion, and the countless lives he transformed will continue to live on — a testament to a man whose love for helping others was as boundless as it was selfless.
Sam was coined with "The Truth" because he cared more about keeping it real than anything. He spoke from his heart and what our community received was raw, uncut love and truth.

Sam, The Truth. You will be in our hearts forever.

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Memory Wall

February 18, 2026

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My Dear Brother Sam,

As the tears dry up and my personal acceptance of your passing finally sets in; I find peace in knowing that although you have passed on in the physical form—You are still with us and will perennially survive in our memories and souls. Your character, master communication skills—your SECOND-TO-NONE charisma, charm and humor. Your integrity, honor, loyalty—and the list that goes on of your unforgettable virtues, that are forever embedded in the memories of anyone that knew you. And as much as I miss even just a phone call from you that would have my stomach in legitimate pain from laughter; I feel blessed for the time that we were graced with in our brotherhood that transcended friendship—and all the memories that we shared.

Admittedly, after receiving the news, a period of shock set in that lasted longer than I have ever experienced. And anyone that knows us, knows that we have lost many — Your passing, Brother Sam, and my acceptance... it was a significantly slow digestion period. So, I make this message public, but continue our dialogue in my daily prayers. I will continue to speak with you in spirit as you will live eternally in my heart.

You always stood on ten, Bro. A stand-up-guy. Truly a man for all seasons.

Not ONE single day passes that you are not on my mind and in my heart. I love you, Brother Sam. May you Rest in Peace and Shine in Paradise.

Mr. Scott, Miss Mary, Natalja: Please collect my most current contact info and call on me if you ever need anything.
Natalja — I'm not sure how well you remember me or my Mama, Miss Amber. But she sends her love, condolences and blessings as well.

A message to your whole family: if there is ever anything I can do, no matter the task—I am a phone call away.

I love you, Brother Sam. My ongoing devotion will be to do my best in carrying the torch of your transformation in life in helping and healing others.

Sincerely—Your Brother,
Zack Armstrong Poole

Zack Poole

August 23, 2025

1

Sam was a very special person in my life. I met him at the tattoo shop as a client and I grew to build a good friendship with him over time. he was always positive and extremely supportive in my career in such a short time. we talked about our relationship with kids, our troubled past and about future plans. he always would tell me how amazing of a tattoo artist I am and how proud he was to carry my art work with him. he was such a amazing friend that I know I'm going to always miss and carry him in spirit thank you for all the love and support my friend we will meet again in a another life time.

Danilo Perez-Polanco

August 20, 2025

1

I'm so blessed I was a witness to how great Sam was. He helped me with my 4th step not long ago and so much more. His story was told by the way he walked the recovery walk. Words can't describe.

Mariah Wagley

August 18, 2025

1

Sam was special to me he help me get where am at today.He keep it so real he let me know that life is much better clean and sober. I will always cherish him and remember the words he spoke

Mary Attaway

Mary Attaway

August 17, 2025

2

A coworker that became a friend and like an older brother that I didn’t have. He called me “BJ” & I found it funny at first cause it symbolized how close we became. He always talked me up & pushed me. We always laughed when we were together. He made things so much fun when he was around cause of the light he is. I cherish the time we spent together & regret the times I missed. I’ll truly miss him & wish he could still be here for the journey that I started with him by my side. Love you brother!

Brian Johnson

August 16, 2025

2

Sam had a huge impact on the man I am today he taught em to walk with purpose and to keep my head up and that it is okay to make mistakes that we are all human I was able to walk along side and work along side with the angle that we called San but he truly was a gift from heaven and he will forever be remembered by the ones lives he touched in a special way lol be you big bro fly high and paint the sky for me

Sean Sullivan

August 14, 2025

3

I miss my friend but I still talk with him everyday and I'm sure the bond we made will stay forever in my heart; brotherly love is truly special and I’m grateful for having him as part of my life.

Carl Williams

August 14, 2025

1

When I think of Sam, I see him as truly one of a kind, a believer in people, and a genuine giver. His generosity, unique personality, and significant positive impact on those around him will always be memorable. For many friends, he was a source of light, joy, and energy, with his kindness serving as a beacon for all fortunate enough to cross his path. He will be greatly missed in my household. His memory will live on strong as we carry on sharing his stories and embracing lessons he passed down within our day-to-day lives.

Christina Patterson

August 13, 2025

7

I had the pleasure of Sam entering my life in November of 2023. He was my recovery coach while I was a client at DPR , the moment i met Sam i didn't feel so alone and different I felt like I had finally met someone that understood me and related to me. What I didn't know was that Sam would never leave my side and I wouldn't leave his from that day on , God really knew what he was doing when he placed Sam in my life , he had the perfect person that would finally be able to reach me where I was at and where I had been at for so many years of my life. Sam did life with me and he did recovery with me , he blessed me In so many ways , later I started a career with Sam he was a great mentor to me and a brother. We worked together , beside one another with the same purpose and same love, Sam always showed up in my life and he was always on time , he was very unique and it's because the Holy Spirit moved through him like no one I had ever seen before. I got to witness him help so many people and he never asked for anything in return but for that person to give themselves a chance and give their loved ones a chance!! I will always carry Sam near to my heart his presence is with me daily and I will forever keep that gift I was given In The hand of God!!

Will Langley

August 13, 2025

4

Sam was an amazing encouragement Aug 2024 when I came to DPR ... I dug my heels in an wanted no more.. He then took me on the porch and made me laugh then cry then I made the biggest decision of my life with his encouragement decided to be selfish for once for myself and fight back... I say this with tears in my eyes a year clean and in college to be a psychiatrist this will be done in your name thank u my friend thank u

Veronica Bryant

August 13, 2025

4

My first year of recovery here in Dallas has been full of service to other addicts and everywhere I would go to carry the message Sam was allways there we got to have several deep conversations about recovery and how to help others ,one time stands out more than the others I was carrying the message at discovery point and Sam was there I was sharing and I looked at him and he had tears in his eyes after the meeting he gave me a big hug and told me thats how u show God's love to his children ❤️ he told me I was gonna help alot of people ,I really needed that ,on that day I was feeling pretty rough ,God allways knows who to put in the right place at the right time ... i will be praying for the family in this hard time ... I didn't know Sam very long but the time I did know him was very impactful in my recovery..thank u Sam ..God speed brother see u on the other side ❤️

Travis Leif Miller

August 12, 2025

4

The loss of Sam is felt by so many. The profound impact he had on people’s lives mirrors the deep sense of loss we now share. While I want to tell myself he left us far too soon, I take comfort in knowing that in his short time here, he changed the course of countless lives in ways most of us can only hope to achieve.

Sam was a light at the end of the tunnel for countless people, guiding them through their darkest moments—personally, professionally, and with a heart fully dedicated to helping others. His life was defined by the hope, strength, and healing he brought to the world.

Sam was one of those rare individuals whose influence reached far and wide. He was a friend I could always talk to and feel truly connected with. I will miss him deeply, but I know the ripple effect of his influence and energy will continue to grow and touch countless more lives.

Tyler Glock

August 11, 2025

7

We suffered a great loss. A true pillar of our community but we will be ok because you prepared us for times like this.

Even if this or that happens we don't have to run back to our old ways. If we work a program around our life it will all work out.

The what if’s will
eventually fade away.

God knows how many lives you changed. I’m very honored to have had you be a part of my recovery journey.

Brandon Lee Salgado

August 8, 2025

8

I lost a friend. My too-young, vibrant, full-of-life friend passed away in his sleep. He was someone I spoke with every single day. He’d text me without fail - just to wish me a good day, to tell me good morning. I leaned on him heavily, both professionally and personally. He was truly my friend.

Sam was someone who made people feel safe. He made hard days easier. He believed in people, even when they didn’t believe in themselves. His impact on our team, on our clients, and on me personally is something that will never fade.

Sam held tight to his recovery with strength and pride. He fought hard for his sobriety—and he never let it go. That’s something I want to protect and honor always.

This loss is devastating. I miss him terribly already. But I know his love, his light, and his legacy will carry on in all of us who were lucky enough to know him.

To know that his impact and spirit will always be in the walls of DPR.. brings me so much peace and joy.

Rest easy, Sam. You’ll always be my friend. ♥️

Birdie Clift

August 7, 2025

6

It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of our beloved colleague and friend, Sam Rainey. Sam was a cherished member of our Waxahachie team—more than just a coworker, he was a source of inspiration, compassion, and strength for everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Sam brought an extraordinary energy to our work and mission. He was driven by an insatiable desire to learn, always seeking out new knowledge to better serve our clients and support his team. His dedication to client care was unparalleled—he cared deeply about each individual’s experience and made it his personal mission to ensure clients felt seen, supported, and motivated to continue their journey in treatment.

What set Sam apart was not only his knowledge and professionalism, but his deeply selfless spirit. He consistently put the needs of others before his own, offering his time, energy, and heart without hesitation. He led with integrity, passion, and authenticity, and his warmth, empathy, and quiet strength created a ripple effect that touched lives far beyond our walls.

The sense of loss we feel is profound. Losing someone who was such an integral part of our team and our daily lives is incredibly difficult, and we recognize the emotional impact this may have on each of us. Please know that our Executive Team stands beside you, ready to support in any way we can. We encourage everyone to lean on one another, share stories, and honor Sam’s memory together.

Bryan,
Discovery MSO, CEO

Bryan Pickryl

August 7, 2025

3

Sam was a one of kind person. He was an awesome friend and will be missed dearly. I loved how he would tell you the truth in any matter, even if it meant making you mad. He always did it with love and conviction. Sam you will always live on in our hearts , you will definitely never be forgotten brother. We had many laughs together that will stay near and dear to my heart. Rather if you meant to or not you left a lasting impact on many lives. Rest in peace my brother, with much love and respect.

Clay mitchum

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